30 Jun 2022 | 02:24 AM UTC
Canada: Adverse weather forecast across parts of southwestern region through at least early June 30
Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes forecast in parts of southwestern Canada through early June 30. Ground, air transport disruptions likely.
Event
Severe thunderstorms and possible tornadoes are forecast across parts of southern Alberta, southern Manitoba, and southern Saskatchewan provinces through at least early June 30. Environment Canada has issued red severe thunderstorm warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across Bow Island, Medicine Hat, and Suffield in Alberta Province and Dauphin, Grand Rapids, Roblin, Russell, Waterhen, and Winnipegosis in Manitoba Province, as well as Gull Lake and Leader in Saskatchewan Province. Red tornado warnings are in place for Duck Mountain, Porcupine Provincial Forest, and Swan River in Manitoba Province, while yellow tornado watches have been issued for Dauphin, Roblin, Russell, and Winnipegosis in Manitoba Province, as well as Canora, Esterhazy, Kamsack, Melville, Preeceville, and Yorkton in Saskatchewan Province. Yellow severe thunderstorm watches are in place across the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where severe weather impacts utility networks.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather will also probably trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in flood-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
