July 15, 2025
REDFM NEWS DESK
Calgary narrowly avoided major destruction during a fast-moving hailstorm on July 13, according to researchers from the Northern Hail Project (NHP). The severe thunderstorm, which swept through the city in just over 30 minutes, produced hailstones up to 45 millimetres in diameter — roughly the size of golf balls.
The storm formed northwest of Waiparous, Alta., and entered Calgary’s northwest around 7:40 p.m., exiting near Chestermere by 8:18 p.m. Despite high wind gusts and visible property damage, experts say it could have been much worse.
Researchers from Western University’s Canadian Severe Storms Laboratory deployed a team to investigate the storm using drones, radar, hail sensors, and door-to-door surveys. While siding and tree damage was observed in areas such as Highland Park, Highwood, and Greenview, officials say initial assessments show less impact than the 2024 storm that caused over $3 billion in losses.
Matthew Woodward, Alberta damage survey lead, said their goal is to map hail impacts, study building material performance, and improve future resiliency. “We look at what breaks and what doesn’t,” he said, noting data from scuffed siding, dented vehicles, and damaged trees helps estimate hail size and intensity.
Calgary’s network of distrometers — hail-measuring sensors often located at fire stations — also provided real-time data during the event.
Residents described the storm as sudden and violent. “It was frightening,” said North Haven homeowner Frank Karas. “It felt like being shot at.”
The NHP team will continue surveying Calgary through Tuesday, with findings made publicly available to support weather research, urban planning, and building code development.
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