Severe storms with hail, lightning, strong winds and heavy rain are unpredictable and can strike quickly with devastating results. Check with your Insurance Broker before a storm strikes to ensure your policies are up to date and reflect your needs and situation.

Hail storms occur across Canada, but none are as furious as the storms in Alberta.

Alberta: Hailstorm Alley

"Hailstorm Alley" runs from south of Calgary to central and northern Alberta. This area is host to over 40 hail storms every year causing hundreds of millions of dollars in damage. Due to Alberta’s geography and weather patterns, hailstorms are have a serious impact across the province.

Statistics show Calgary to be the hailstorm capital of the country, and Alberta to be the most disaster-prone of Canada’s provinces. More than half of the country’s severe weather insurance claims are from Alberta.

In August 2014, a severe wind, rain, and hail storm in and around Airdrie resulted in $450 million in insured damages.

The destructive history of hail storms in Alberta means that being prepared is essential for residents.  

What Do I Do If a Hailstorm Starts?

• If the hailstorm has not yet hit, put your car in a garage to protect it from damage and bring your pets inside.

• Once the storm starts, stay indoors no matter what personal property is outside.

• In the event of a power outage, tune into a battery-powered radio for updates.

• Stay away from windows, glass doors and skylights which can shatter if hit by hail stones.

• When hail is accompanied by a thunderstorm, don’t touch any items in the house that can conduct electricity such as appliances, phones, poles, sinks and bathtubs.

• If you are in a car when the storm strikes, drive to an area away from trees and power lines that could fall on your vehicle. Stop your vehicle in a safe location and do not get out of your car. Cover yourself with a blanket to protect yourself from broken glass.

If Your Home or Property Is Damaged

• Prepare an inventory of what has been lost or damaged.

• Take photographs of damaged property. This will assist in the claims process.

• Evaluate the condition of your roof, siding, and windows to identify any damage and prevent further deterioration.

• Contact your insurance broker to report damages.

• Keep receipts for any repair and/or cleanup costs incurred (If the damage is too comprehensive to wait for repairs after the claim has been filed).

Are You Covered?

Check with your insurance representative to ensure your policies are up to date and serve your particular needs.

Review them and ensure you are familiar with the deductibles, coverage limits and replacement values. If anything is unclear, your insurance representative can provide additional information. 

Call us today to make sure you're covered! 1-855-475-0959