Severe Calgary Storm: Damage to Homes, Cars, and Airport Roof Collapse

 ⚠️🌩️ Calgary was hit hard by a severe storm last night! From shattered windows to collapsed airport roofs, the damage is extensive. 🚗🏠✈️ Stay safe and check flight updates. #Calgary #Alberta

Homes, Cars, and the Airport: Severe Damage After Calgary Storm

Posted: August 6, 2024, 6:57 am Last Updated: August 6, 2024, 10:44 am

Many Calgarians are reeling from the aftermath of a severe thunderstorm that swept through the city on Monday night. The storm shattered windows, dented cars, and even caused parts of the YYC International Airport's terminal roof to collapse.

The Storm's Impact

An emergency alert was issued just before 7:45 p.m. on Monday, warning of a storm with strong wind gusts, baseball-sized hail, and heavy rain. Online footage captured the chaos at Calgary's airport just half an hour later. Alarms blared, roof panels fell, and water pooled on the floor. YYC confirmed on social media that hail and heavy rain had damaged the terminal building, leading to the evacuation of B and C gates for the safety of guests and staff. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported, but delays to inbound and outbound flights are expected. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on their flights.

Community Impact

The storm wreaked havoc on Calgary's north end, particularly in communities like Skyview and Cornerstone, before heading east towards Strathmore. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) meteorologist Heather Pimiskern, this was a supercell storm, which isn't uncommon for Calgary. Supercells are known for producing severe weather, including large hail. Pimiskern noted that the largest reported hail was around five centimeters in size, larger than a golf ball. The storm also brought between 10 and 15 millimeters of rain.

Traffic and Safety Concerns

Footage from the City of Calgary's traffic cameras showed several vehicles stopped under overpasses throughout the city, causing delays and safety hazards. Calgary Police Sgt. Chris Martin took to social media to advise drivers not to stop under bridges and overpasses. "You endanger not only every single person trapped behind you, but yourself as well," he warned.

Historical Context

Calgary is no stranger to severe weather. In 2020, a major thunderstorm caused $1.2 billion in damages. The city's location and climate make it susceptible to intense storms, particularly in the summer months.

Analysis and Commentary

This storm underscores the importance of preparedness and swift response in the face of severe weather. Calgary's emergency alert system worked effectively, providing timely warnings that likely prevented injuries and saved lives. The quick evacuation of the airport gates demonstrates a well-coordinated effort to ensure public safety.

However, the widespread damage to homes, cars, and infrastructure highlights the vulnerability of urban environments to natural disasters. The footage of vehicles stopping under overpasses is a stark reminder of the need for public education on safe driving practices during storms. Sgt. Martin's warning should be heeded by all drivers to avoid similar hazards in the future.

Additional Research

Supercell storms, like the one that hit Calgary, are characterized by their rotating updrafts and can produce severe weather phenomena such as large hail, strong winds, and tornadoes. These storms are fueled by instability in the atmosphere and can persist for several hours, covering large areas and causing significant damage. Calgary's geographical location makes it a hotspot for such storms, particularly during the summer when atmospheric conditions are most favorable.

Actionable Takeaways

1. Stay Informed: Always monitor weather alerts and heed warnings from authorities.
2. Prepare Your Home: Ensure your home is fortified against severe weather. This includes securing windows, reinforcing roofs, and having emergency supplies on hand.
3. Drive Safely: Never stop under overpasses during a storm. It's safer to pull over to the side of the road away from traffic if you need to wait out the weather.
4. Have a Plan: Know the emergency evacuation routes and have a family communication plan in place.

Conclusion

The recent storm in Calgary is a potent reminder of nature's power and the need for preparedness. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, we can mitigate the impact of such events and ensure the safety of our communities. Let's learn from this experience and strive to be better prepared for the next storm.

Stay tuned to 660 NewsRadio Calgary for the latest updates on weather, news, and traffic every 10 minutes on the ones. More to come.