Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Foothills County: Brace for Potent Weather

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Foothills County and surrounding areas, including Okotoks, High River, and Claresholm. Residents in these regions are advised to brace for potentially dangerous weather conditions, with the watch highlighting the risk of large hail, strong winds, and torrential rainfall.

Forecasters warn that these severe thunderstorms could bring hail the size of loonies, capable of causing significant property damage.

Along with the threat of damaging hail, wind gusts reaching up to 90 km/h could snap tree branches and toss loose objects, creating hazardous conditions. Heavy downpours are also anticipated, which may lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas and rapidly rising water levels.

While Calgary itself is not currently under the severe thunderstorm watch, the city is not entirely out of the woods.

The forecast for Calgary indicates increasing cloudiness throughout the day, with a strong chance of showers and the possibility of general thunderstorms. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 23°C, making for a humid and potentially unsettled day.

For those within the severe thunderstorm watch area, it is crucial to take immediate precautions.

Environment Canada advises moving vehicles to covered parking or away from trees, securing any loose outdoor items, and bringing pets indoors. When thunder roars, head indoors and stay there. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning, which poses a serious and immediate danger.

Motorists should exercise extreme caution, especially when encountering heavy rain.

Avoid driving through flooded underpasses or overpasses, as water depths can be deceptive and currents can be strong. Remember, it doesn't take much flowing water to sweep a vehicle away. Stay tuned to local weather alerts and be prepared to take shelter if conditions rapidly deteriorate.