Calgary is prone to high winds which can be dangerous: flying debris, downed trees, and power lines can lead to power outages, property damage, air and transit disruptions and serious injury. Windstorms in Calgary can happen anytime; good indicators of high winds include thunderstorms, intense low pressure centres, cold fronts, and Chinook arches.
Southern Alberta is one of the windiest regions in Canada. Calgary averages about 13 days a year with wind speeds over 63 km/h. A wind storm in 2017 with wind speeds of 93 km/h knocked out power to 12,000 homes and businesses. Our Disaster Risk Explorer has information about the risk of disasters in Calgary and what the City is doing to prepare for it.
Avoid driving. If you are in a vehicle during a windstorm, park away from trees or power lines and avoid the base of steep or unstable slopes and low areas prone to flooding. Stay inside the car.
After a windstorm
Inspect any damage that may have occurred to your property and contact your insuance provider if necessary.