Special Weather Statement - Lots of Rain On the Way
Cloudy Sky Over Medicine Hat June 17 - Photo Credit Kelly Allard
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the City of Medicine Hat, we can expect anywhere from 50mm- 100mm (2-4 inches). This will bring some relief to parched rivers and streams in the area.
Heavy precipitation and strong winds are expected this weekend over southern Alberta. Rain will begin Friday, with the heaviest rain forecast to fall along the Alberta foothills. General precipitation amounts will range between 50 to 100 mm by Sunday afternoon, however some areas, especially along the southern foothills could see between 100-200 mm.
Cooler temperatures will move into the region on Friday night, and rain will change to snow over mountainous terrain. The snow will be very wet and heavy, and accumulations will be highly variable. Upwards of 10 to 20 cm is possible over the highest terrain such as Highwood Pass and southern sections of Highway 93.
Strong northerly winds will also develop on Saturday, with gusts of 60-80 km/h. The strong winds combined with the recent rainfall could result in tree damage. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ABstorm@ec.gc.ca, call 1-800-239-0484 or post reports on X using #ABStorm.
Residents are cautioned to secure belongings ahead of the strong winds expected on Saturday. Many plants and trees have been weakened by drought which can make them susceptible to the high winds and heavy rain. Trees can be uprooted, landslide can occur.
