SASKATCHEWAN — Six tornadoes have been confirmed and more are under investigation following a series of powerful storms that swept through central and northern areas of Saskatchewan on July 10.
In a July 11 post on its Facebook page, the Northern Tornadoes Project (NTP) said there were many storm reports the previous day in southern Saskatchewan, and the NTP is so far confirming two twisters in the Herzel area, and one each for Dundurn, Plunkett, Cupar and Leross.
An NTP survey team is investigating damage in Speers, Rosthern, and from Petrofka to Waldheim. Other reports are being analyzed.
According to Environment Canada, a low-pressure system that moved through southern Saskatchewan on the afternoon and evening of July 10 produced what Environment Canada called a "severe weather outbreak" that spawned multiple severe thunderstorms. Very large hail and strong winds were reported at numerous locations across the province, the agency said.
According to preliminary data from Environment Canada, multiple reports of funnel clouds and possible tornadoes also came in.
"There were also reports of extensive damage to houses, roofs, trees, power lines and other structures," the agency said.
The first confirmed tornado was near Dundurn. At approximately 4 p.m., a tornado was observed. Environment Canada said it received several reports and photos of the twister. The agency added it is collaborating with the Northern Tornadoes Project as it investigates further. Once a preliminary assessment has been completed, Environment Canada said it would provide more information.
As for hail, Environment Canada said preliminary information showed reports of tennis-ball sized hail came in from Allan, while "hen egg-sized" hail was reported in Plunkett and golf ball to baseball-sized hail was reported in Waldheim. Other reports included ping-pong ball to golf ball-sized hail in Dundurn and Hafford, ping-pong ball-sized hail in Bluementhal, and golf ball-sized hail in Hague.
Wind damage was also reported in multiple locations, the agency said, with significant damage to structures in Speers, Rosthern, Hague and Waldheim.
Anyone with information regarding this event, or to report severe weather at any time, call 1-800-239-0484, email storm@ec.gc.ca, or post using #skstorm.
While no storm warnings or watches were in effect as of 11 a.m. on July 11, five separate heat warnings have been issued, blanketing most of the province. The cities of Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert and Moose Jaw are affected, as are the Battlefords, communities in nearly 300 RMs, and several other municipalities.
