Severe storms likely in parts of southern Alberta Wednesday afternoon

Editor’s note: By Thursday morning at 2 a.m., all thunderstorm watches issued by Environment Canada had ended. 

This summer has seen several thunderstorms tear through Alberta, and on Wednesday, more unsettled weather was expected across the province.

Chief meteorologist with Global Edmonton Jesse Beyer said the afternoon could bring damaging weather for some southern Alberta communities, including large hail, strong winds and heavy rainfall.

“In southern Alberta, specifically east and southeast of Calgary, we will be looking at some severe storms,” Beyer said. “Some of the strongest so far this season.

“If these storms live up to their forecast potential, there could be up to six-centimetre hail — that’s the size of a baseball.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "If these storms live up to their forecast potential, there could be up to six-centimetre hail — that's the size of a baseball."

Beyer said the weather could also take a turn for the worse, producing tornadoes in some parts of the province.

“With the trough position, ample low-level moisture and upper-level atmospheric wind support, not only is there the risk for baseball-size hail, but these storms will also be capable of producing tornadoes.”

On Wednesday morning, Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm watch for parts of Alberta, including Calgary, Cochrane and Rocky View County.

Just before 4 p.m., a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Clearwater County near Nordegg.

Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Rocky View County near Cochrane at around 10:40 p.m., saying the storm was capable of producing very strong wind gusts, nickel- to ping-pong-ball-sized hail and heavy rain. The storm was located 25 kilometres northwest of Cochrane, moving towards the east at 30 km/h.

However, the province’s capital could expect milder weather, according to Beyer.

“The low in the north will bring scattered showers and mostly non-severe, garden-variety thundershowers. This includes the city of Edmonton,” Beyer said.

“After a round of moderate rainfall this morning, we could be looking at round two tonight and overnight, with more rain expected Thursday.”

Beyer noted Wednesday’s weather could change rapidly throughout the afternoon and added that caution should be taken when travelling.

For up-to-date road conditions, follow 511 Alberta.

Want your weather on the go? Download the Global News Skytracker weather app for iOS and Android.