Strong thunderstorms and potential landspouts through southern Alberta and Saskatchewan
OTTAWA, Tuesday, May 13, 2025 – 08:00 local time — Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for a broad swath of the southern Prairies, spanning eastern Alberta to western Saskatchewan, with heightened concern for areas between Calgary and Saskatoon.
Meteorologist Tiffany Lizée from Global Calgary highlighted that atmospheric conditions Monday evening favoured the development of strong convective systems, with prime risks including strong wind gusts, large hail, and intense rainfall. There remains a slight risk for landspout tornado formation, which differs notably from classic tornadoes.
What to expect: landspouts vs. supercells
Landspouts are a rare type of tornado that originate at ground level and spiral upward to the cloud base, unlike the more dangerous supercell tornadoes which descend from storm clouds. While landspout tornadoes are typically weaker and short-lived, they can still cause localized damage, especially in open rural areas or over highways. In contrast, supercells bring greater destruction and duration, often stretching for kilometres.
Severe risk expands northwest of Calgary and into western Saskatchewan
The northwestern quadrant of Calgary is also facing a heavy rainfall warning, stretching north through Jasper National Park and extending east toward Drayton Valley. Rainfall accumulation could approach 70 mm by Tuesday morning, making travel hazardous and increasing the potential for flash flooding in low-lying areas.
In western Saskatchewan, a separate severe thunderstorm warning has been activated. A developing storm system over Montana is projected to push northward into the province, bringing with it the risk of damaging winds and sudden downpours.
Damage potential and infrastructure risk
According to Environment Canada, wind damage to roofs, trees, and fencing is possible. In addition, fast-rising surface runoff and rapidly moving water could damage roads and sweep away vehicles, especially along rural highways and unpaved roads.
Residents and travellers in the affected areas—from eastern Calgary, through central Alberta, and across into Saskatchewan—are advised to remain alert for evolving thunderstorm activity overnight and into Tuesday morning, as conditions remain volatile and conducive to severe storm development.
