Mennonite Church in Barnwell after a hail storm on August 7, 2019. (Photo: LNN)

By Sarah Jones/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Albertans encouraged to prepare for hail, wind and floods ahead of summer: AMA

Jun 14, 2023 | 2:50 PM

CALGARY – As the temperatures begin to warm so does the risk of severe storm activity in Alberta.

The province is no stranger to destructive weather, with the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) indicating that six of the 10 most expensive disasters in Canadian history took place in Alberta.

According to AMA, Alberta actually tops all other provinces combined in storm-related damages.

More recently, the 2020 catastrophic hailstorm in Calgary was estimated to cost $1.3 billion in insured damages, the fourth costliest natural disaster on record in the country.

With hail, wind and flood season on the horizon, AMA Insurance is encouraging homeowners to prepare for any situation.

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Ryan Gladun, manager, AMA Insurance Agency said, “A single hailstorm can cause more than a billion dollars in combined damage to people’s properties and vehicles.”

He continued, “But having an emergency plan and taking preventative measures can go a long way toward reducing your risk as a homeowner.”

Some of the steps offered in prevention include moving vehicles under cover at the first sign of severe weather. Residents are also advised to regularly check that downspouts are clear and draining properly, and inspect the foundation of their home to seal cracks and leaks such as in the floors, walls, and roof.

It’s also important to test sump pumps and backwater valves to ensure they work properly. If not, people are encouraged to get it serviced to prevent backups.

The best way to ensure someone is protected is by keeping track of severe weather events via weather alerts on the Environment Canada website.