What to do during a hail storm
Definition
Calgary is vulnerable to hail. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) defines hail as precipitation in the form of solid ice pellets ranging from small pea-sized to large grapefruit-sized lumps that form inside strong thunderstorm updrafts. Hail can cause severe damage to properties and vehicles.
How to prepare
- Routinely monitor local weather forecasts and Alberta Emergency Alerts for watches and warnings for thunderstorms (which often include hail).
- Put together an emergency kit with essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and batteries to get you through the first few days of an emergency.
- Make an emergency action plan for your household so you know what to do and who to contact in an emergency.
- Review your home insurance policy and ask your insurance provider what your policy covers in the event of damage from natural disasters.
- Secure outdoor items by moving vehicles, patio furniture, and other belongings into a garage or shed, if possible.
- Inspect and maintain your property, especially your outdoor area and roof to ensure protection against strong winds, rain and hail.
- Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed and maintained to limit impacts from hail and winds.
What to do during
- When hail or thunderstorms threaten, seek shelter immediately in a secure building. Bring your pets inside too.
- Close all windows and doors. Stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights.
- Draw curtains and blinds to help contain broken glass if a window shatters.
- If you’re driving, pull over safely and remain in your vehicle.
- If you’re caught outside with no shelter, crouch down, face away from the wind and protect your head and neck with your arms.
- Watch for flooded areas. Excessive hail combined with heavy rain can block storm drains and create local flooding.
- Stay away from trees, towers, metal fences or poles to avoid lightning strikes.
- Place any cars, RVs, boats, recreational vehicles, patio furniture and other large objects in a covered area, like a shed or garage if possible.
Know what to do after
- Clean up and prepare to repair any damage.
Related links
Hail preparedness guide
This easy to follow Hail Preparedness Guide will help walk you through how to prepare for a hail storm, how to stay safe during a hail storm and what to expect afterwards. It is available in multiple languages: