Tornado Update
Update - July 20, 4:40pm
Following further assessment, the tornado that occurred on July 18 has been confirmed to have touched down southwest of the Town of Rocky Mountain House. As the vortex moved intermittently northeast, it travelled through the southern portion of town and continued across rural properties along Highway 598 and Taimi Road, out to approximately Range Road 6-0. See map of the approximate tornado path.
While the storm caused significant damage, we are grateful that the tornado largely impacted outbuildings, shops, and trees rather than residences.
Current assessments indicate:
- 51 properties sustained damage.
- 8 residences are currently believed to be uninhabitable.
- No tornado-related injuries have been reported.
- No residents have reported being displaced, as accommodations have been secured.
- Access to all properties was restored the same night thanks to the coordinated efforts of emergency responders and partner agencies.
- Five power poles were diligently restored by local power companies.
- Approximately 92 hectares of standing tree, acreage vegetation and crop areas sustained severe tree damage, with many trees flattened by the storm.
- No Clearwater County infrastructure has been reported damaged.
County crews continue to clear debris from ditches and road rights-of-way. Residents and volunteers assisting with cleanup are urged to exercise caution, as storm damage may have affected underground and above-ground utility infrastructure, including natural gas lines.
Rocky Gas Co-op crews are actively inspecting their system for damage and leaks. If you smell natural gas or observe damaged gas infrastructure, please call 403-845-2766 immediately.
Important Information for Impacted Residents
1. Complete the Damage Assessment Survey
Residents affected by the tornado are encouraged to complete the County's damage assessment survey. This information will help Clearwater County estimate overall damages and determine eligibility for potential provincial disaster assistance programs.
This survey will be available shortly at this link: https://arcg.is/1OKW847
2. Debris Disposal Options
Residents may:
- Take small loads of storm debris to any County transfer station.
- Take large loads to the regional landfill.
To help ensure efficient operations:
- Separate construction and demolition waste from vegetation and tree debris.
- If possible, cut fallen tree trunks into approximately 6-foot lengths before transport.
Safety Reminder
When cleaning up storm damage:
- Watch for damaged utility lines and unstable trees.
- Use caution when operating equipment.
- Contact Click Before You Dig before any ground disturbance: https://utilitysafety.ca
- Stay clear of any suspected gas leaks and report concerns immediately.
We thank our emergency responders, utility partners, municipal staff, volunteers, and residents for their continued efforts throughout the recovery process.
If residents need further assistance, please contact the County office 403-845-4444. As always, call 911 for medical, fire and police emergencies.
Original Post - July 18, 9:00pm
On July 18, at approximately 6:30 p.m., a tornado caused significant damage in parts of Clearwater County and the Town of Rocky Mountain House. Reports indicate downed trees, damaged homes and buildings, blocked roads, and impacts to local infrastructure.
At this time, there have been no reported injuries. It is estimated that approximately 40 homes have been impacted.
Emergency crews, Alberta Forestry, Clearwater County, and Town of Rocky Mountain House Public Works crews are actively working to clear debris, restore access, and address immediate safety concerns. Residents are asked to avoid affected areas, use caution on roadways, and stay clear of downed trees and power lines.
We thank all responding agencies and community members for their cooperation and patience as cleanup efforts continue.
Tornadoes are common in Alberta. Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones at: https://www.alberta.ca/tornadoes-and-extreme-winds
