Severe thunderstorm warning and watch for Calgary: Environment Canada
Posted Jul 5, 2026 11:30 am.
Last Updated Jul 5, 2026 2:59 pm.
Environment Canada issued a warning for Calgary, saying it’s tracking a severe thunderstorm that’s capable of producing strong wind gusts, quarter-sized hail, and very heavy rain Sunday.
At 2:21 p.m., a yellow warning says the storm is west of Calgary and is moving towards the city at 25 kilometres per hour.
The ECCC says driving conditions will likely be difficult, and heavy rain may cause flash flooding and significant reductions in visibility.
“Take immediate cover if a thunderstorm approaches. If outside, protect yourself from flying debris and hail,” the yellow warning reads.
An orange watch, which remains in effect in conjunction with the warning, says hail and storms are capable of “significant damage, disruption, or health impacts.”
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO LIVE WEATHER COVERAGE!The ECCC also says the storm can produce strong wind gusts, damaging hail, and heavy rain.
“Heavy rain can cause flash flooding and significant reductions to visibility. Strong wind gusts can damage trees, buildings and overturn vehicles. Large hail can cause significant damage and injury,” the orange watch reads.
“Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing damaging hail, wind or rain.”
The orange watch, which affects southern Alberta, also stretches into the southeast corner of the province, affecting Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Taber, Coutts, Milk River, and Wild Horse.
According to the ECCC website, an orange alert is used when severe weather is “likely to cause significant damage, disruption, or health impacts.”
It says orange alerts are uncommon, and the impacts are expected to be “major, widespread and/or may last a few days.”
The more common yellow alert means hazardous weather may cause damage, disruption, or health impacts considered “moderate, localized and/or short-term.”
