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By Julia Lovett-Squires

Heat Spell Broken

Break expected in heat spell, after Thursday storm brings rain and hail to Battlefords area

Jul 12, 2024 | 8:15 PM

Residents can expect a break in the heat for a few days, following last night’s thunderstorm which brought hard rain and hail the size of tennis balls and golf balls to the Battlefords, Biggar, and surrounding areas.

“That was a pretty interesting looking storm alright,” said Stephen Berg, meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada.

He explained earlier in the spring there had been a trough situation, which was conducive to developing a low-pressure system – making it ideal for soggy weather. When the sun did make an appearance along with it came the heat and that developed a ridge that built up over parts of the prairies and is still hanging on.

“The heat came in quite a bit and temperatures in the mid to high 30s in parts of south-central Alberta, south central Saskatchewan, even up into northern Saskatchewan had humidex values into the upper 30s,” he said.

Funnel clouds were also spotted around Biggar and Elk Ridge but at this point, they haven’t received any reports of damage as there has yet to be confirmation of a touchdown.

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“That’d just be a little bit of an ominous sight for people around there,” he said.

Coming into the weekend, the temperatures are set to drop to the low to mid-20s until about Monday when the pattern repeats, and the heat wave returns Thursday.

“Not certain about whether it’ll be quite as intense but certainly quite warm,” said Berg.

To prepare for the temperatures ahead, those who are most susceptible – children, those with health issues, the elderly and homeless – hydrate as much they can and get out of the direct sun.

Wide-brimmed hats, and sunscreen will also help.

“Make sure you’re well intune with your body, if you feel uncomfortable, seek shelter or shade as much as you can and try to find a cool place to seek refuge for a few hours” Berg said.

To get updates on the forecast, visit the Environment Canada websiite or the WeatherCan app.

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julia.lovettsquires@pattisonmedia.com

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