Severe thunderstorms possible in Alberta today

A severe storm watch has been issued in many parts of Alberta on July 8, 2026. (Josh Classen/CTV News Edmonton)

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for a large portion of Alberta.

Isolated storms are expected to develop through this afternoon and early evening and some of those storms may turn severe. The main threats from the severe storms will be large hail, potentially damaging wind gusts near 100 km/h and downpours.

Edmonton and surrounding areas are under a yellow watch, while eastern Alberta is under an elevated orange watch. That region also has a slight risk of a tornado.

Reminder: A watch means “potential” for severe weather. A warning means the severe weather is imminent or occurring.

As always - most areas under a watch will not get severe weather. However, anyone in that zone should be on alert and prepared.