Thunderstorm threat looms over Westman this weekend
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 25/07/2025 (246 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Westman residents can expect to see more thunderstorm activity this weekend, Environment Canada meteorologist Crawford Luke told the Sun.
A severe thunderstorm watch was in effect Friday and conditions will continue to be ripe today and possibly Sunday, Luke said.
“These storms could bring large hail up to five or six centimetres in diameter, damaging wind gusts exceeding 100 kilometres an hour, and even a slight risk of tornadoes,” he said.
“It’s not certain how widespread the storms will be, but those that do form could be intense.”
The affected region includes Brandon, Carberry, Neepawa, Minnedosa, Riding Mountain National Park, Cartwright, Killarney, Turtle Mountain and areas stretching as far east as the Red River Valley and Interlake.
Environment Canada’s official statement notes that “conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, damaging hail, and torrential rain.”
The agency is advising residents to monitor weather alerts closely and be prepared to take immediate shelter if storms approach.
“When thunder roars, go indoors,” the statement warned. “Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.”
For people heading outdoors or planning weekend camping trips, Luke emphasized the importance of staying alert.
“If you’re going to Riding Mountain or spending time outside, have a way to get weather updates and take shelter in a secure building like a comfort station or restroom if a storm hits,” he said.
Construction crews and others working outdoors are also urged to take extra caution.
“If there’s a thunderstorm in the area, it’s best to stop work and move to safety,” Luke advised. “Stay away from half-constructed structures that could collapse in high winds.”
Environment Canada encourages the public to report hail or wind damage by emailing storm photos and observations to mbstorm@ec.gc.ca to help meteorologists better track severe weather activity.
With unstable air masses dominating the region through the weekend, Luke said, all outdoor plans — from festivals to renovations — may need to be reconsidered as safety takes priority.
“It’s definitely a weekend for people in Westman and beyond to keep a close eye on the sky,” he added.
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