Thunderstorm potential is revived on the Prairies with rising energy, system
A good portion of the Prairies will once again see widespread thunderstorm potential over the next couple of days as conditions become more favourable. Thursday and Friday will feature strong storms in some areas that will be capable of producing gusty winds and hail
It's been a week of extremes on the Prairies, from severe storms to frost and chilly temperatures for some areas.
The potential for thunderstorms will be revived on Thursday and Friday, with Alberta taking most of the threat during the former before it spreads east during the latter. Parts of Alberta could see severe storms Thursday, featuring heavy downpours and large hail that could exceed two centimetres in diameter.
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You'll want to stay updated on the weather alerts in your area as conditions can change quickly when severe weather hits.
Thursday and Friday: Thunderstorm risks pop up and move east
On Thursday, the focus of the thunderstorm activity will be in central and northern Alberta. Instability will grow along the foothills, extending up into Fort McMurray, Alta.
Severe thunderstorms may be triggered along the QE2 between Red Deer and Edmonton, Alta., with storms expected to begin in the late afternoon before moving east by the evening.
Travel disruptions are possible in those severe storms, with heavy downpours and large hail that could exceed two centimetres--occurring during a time that could affect evening commuters.
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On Friday, the thunderstorm risk becomes very widespread. Isolated, pop-up thunderstorms are anticipated for much of the Prairies.
The severe potential will be focused farther east, reaching into Manitoba’s Interlake region where thunderstorm energy and a frontal trigger appear to be the strongest.
Stay tuned to The Weather Network for the latest forecast updates for the Prairies.
Thumbnail courtesy of André Belisle.