Calgary, Alberta – Calgarians are waking up to assess the extensive damage caused by a severe thunderstorm that swept through the city on Monday evening. The storm left a significant mark on the city, particularly in the northwest and northeast regions.
The storm was so intense that an emergency alert was issued, warning residents to take cover as the system was capable of producing hail the size of baseballs.
The communities in the northwest and northeast bore the brunt of the storm. Numerous reports of damage to homes, vehicles, and yards have been recorded. Redstone, one of the affected neighborhoods, still has localized flooding, with some areas under several feet of water. Vehicles attempting to navigate through the flooded streets often found themselves stalled or damaged.
Many homes have sustained damage to their siding, particularly on the western exposures. This damage is reminiscent of a similar storm in 2020 that caused over a billion dollars in damage to the northeast. As residents begin to clean up and assess the damage, it is clear that the financial impact of this storm will be substantial.
The Calgary International Airport (YYC) was also significantly impacted. Parts of the domestic terminal were closed due to water damage from the hail and heavy rain. Ceiling tiles fell, and water poured into the terminal, leading to the cancellation of over 30 flights. Passengers are advised to check their flight status online before heading to the airport as cancellations and delays continue to affect travel plans.
The storm also created hazardous conditions on the roads. Underpasses, particularly on Stoney Trail at Harvest Hills, Deerfoot Trail, and Country Hills, were blocked by vehicles seeking shelter from the hail. This caused significant traffic disruptions and created dangerous situations for drivers. Calgary police have emphasized the risks associated with blocking underpasses, urging drivers to avoid this practice despite the temptation to protect their vehicles from hail damage.
As the city begins the cleanup process, community members are coming together to support each other. The immediate focus is on clearing flooded areas, removing debris, and assessing structural damages. Insurance companies are likely to be inundated with claims as residents document the extent of the damage to their properties and vehicles.
While the storm has passed, its effects will be felt for some time. The city’s infrastructure will need careful evaluation and repair.
The Calgary Airport Authority is working diligently to restore normal operations, and city officials are coordinating cleanup and repair efforts across the most affected areas.
As the city moves forward, the focus will be on rebuilding and supporting those most impacted by the storm now.