Tornado Recovery Update
Update - August 7, 4:30pm
Clearwater County would like to thank the residents who attended the Tornado Recovery Landowner Information Meeting on August 6 and who continue to support recovery efforts following the July 18 tornadoes.
The meeting provided affected property owners with an update on recovery operations, provincial funding support, and next steps for debris removal and wildfire risk reduction activities.
Tornado Impact Summary
On July 18, 2026, two EF-2 tornadoes touched down in the Rocky Mountain House area, causing significant damage to residential properties, agricultural lands, trees, and infrastructure. See map of the approximate tornado path. For more information, please visit the Northern Tornado Projects website.
For the purposes of provincial disaster recovery programming, a natural disaster is generally defined as a sudden event caused by natural forces that results in widespread damage, disruption, or danger to life and property that exceeds the capacity of individuals and local authorities to address on their own.
Current assessments indicate:
- 51 affected properties within Clearwater County
- Up to 5 additional properties potentially affected within the Town of Rocky Mountain House
- 8 residences initially considered uninhabitable
- Approximately 92 hectares of severe tree and vegetation damage
- Ongoing road allowance and ditch clearing operations throughout affected areas
Provincial Funding Information
Residents were provided an overview of Alberta's commitment of up to $1.2 million in disaster relief funding to support tornado recovery efforts.
The funding is intended to assist with:
- Fallen tree removal
- Debris cleanup
- Wildfire risk reduction measures
At this time, Clearwater County continues to work with the Province to finalize program details and eligibility requirements.
What Expenses May Be Eligible?
The funding is intended to address uninsurable disaster-related cleanup costs.
Examples of potentially eligible work include:
- Removal of downed trees
- Vegetation cleanup
- Debris hauling and disposal
Costs that are already covered through private insurance are not expected to be eligible for reimbursement.
Residents who have already undertaken cleanup work may be able to seek reimbursement for eligible expenses, provided they:
- Maintain detailed invoices and receipts
- Document the work completed
- Meet provincial program requirements
- Comply with contractor rates established through the Alberta Roadbuilders rate guide, where applicable
- Submit expenses only for work that qualifies under the program
Final eligibility determinations will be subject to provincial program requirements once details have been finalized.
Complete the Required Forms
1. Complete the Damage Assessment Survey (Link: www.arcg.is/1OKW847) to help Clearwater County:
- Maintain current landowner contact information
- Understand the full extent of damages
- Support ongoing recovery planning
- Assist discussions regarding disaster recovery assistance
2. Complete the "Consent to Access Private Property" Form (available at the County office) if landowners wish to:
- Participate in the County-led cleanup program, or
- Seek reimbursement for eligible cleanup activities.
Landowners are encouraged to complete the Consent to Access Private Property form as soon as possible.
This authorization will allow the County and its contractors to assess damaged areas and determine what work may be required.
Contractor Site Visits and Cleanup Planning
Over the coming weeks, Clearwater County will continue developing its tree and debris removal program.
The next phase will include:
- Contractor site visits to affected properties
- Assessment of tornado-related debris and tree damage
- Identification of hazardous areas requiring specialized cleanup
- Development of individual work plans where required
Residents are reminded that if damaged trees or debris present a safety risk, they should avoid attempting cleanup themselves. Hazardous areas can be identified during contractor site visits and included in future cleanup plans.
Fence Line Surveys
Clearwater County can assist with GPS location of fence lines prior to damage. Clearwater County does not have the capacity to survey properties, and this should be completed by an Alberta Legal Land Surveyor.
Insurance Concerns
Residents experiencing difficulties with insurance claims or recovery-related insurance matters are encouraged to contact MLA Jason Nixon's office at 403-638-5029 for assistance and guidance.
Next Steps
Future updates will be shared through:
- Direct communication with affected landowners
- The Clearwater County website
- County social media channels
- Email notifications
Clearwater County remains committed to supporting residents throughout the recovery process and will continue working closely with the Province, partner agencies, and affected landowners as cleanup and recovery efforts move forward.
Additional Information:
- General information, please contact Clearwater County at 403-845-4444
- For medical, fire, or police emergencies, call 911
- If you smell natural gas or observe damaged gas infrastructure, contact Rocky Gas Co-op immediately at 403-845-2766
- Debris Disposal Options:
- 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.
Stay Safe During Cleanup
Residents are reminded to remain cautious around tornado-damaged areas.
Potential hazards include:
- Unstable or partially fallen trees
- Hanging or damaged branches on treetops
- Hidden debris piles
- Contact Click Before You Dig before any ground disturbance: https://utilitysafety.ca
- Stay clear of any suspected gas leaks and report concerns immediately
If an area appears unsafe, residents should leave it undisturbed until it can be assessed by qualified personnel.
Tornadoes are common in Alberta. Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones at: https://www.alberta.ca/tornadoes-and-extreme-winds
