The Countdown is On! One Week Until Solar Eclipse in Alberta

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE MAP TO OPEN A ZOOMABLE IMAGE


Alberta is in for a rare celestial display of a solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024. While it won’t be a total solar eclipse that will be seen in the eastern provinces, this partial eclipse is still an event you don’t want to miss as the Moon moves across and blocks part of the Sun.

Here's what you need to know about this event and how to observe it safely.


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Timing and Coverage

Residents across Alberta will see at least 10% sun coverage, except for the extreme northwest corner of the province which will see just less than 10% and coverage gradually increases moving south and east to just over 35% coverage in the southeast corner.

   
Location   
   
Max Coverage   
   
Partial Begins   
   
Maximum   
   
Partial Ends   
   
Banff   
   
24.08%   
   
11:48 AM   
   
12:41 PM   
   
1:35 PM   
   
Calgary   
   
26.24%   
   
11:48 AM   
   
12:43 PM   
   
1:38 PM   
   
Camrose   
   
24.82 %   
   
11:53 AM   
   
12:46 PM   
   
1:41 PM   
   
Edmonton   
   
23.23%   
   
11:54 AM   
   
12:46 PM   
   
1:39 PM   
   
Fort McMurray   
   
21.01%   
   
12:01 PM   
   
12:51 PM   
   
1:42 PM   
   
Grande Prairie   
   
15.30%   
   
11:57 AM   
   
12:42 PM   
   
1:29 PM   
   
Jasper   
   
18.73%   
   
11:52 AM   
   
12:41 PM   
   
1:30 PM   
   
Lethbridge   
   
30.10%   
   
11:45 AM   
   
12:43 PM   
   
1:41 PM   
   
Lloydminster   
   
27.97%   
   
11:45 AM   
   
12:43 PM   
   
1:46 PM   
   
Medicine Hat   
   
32.65%   
   
11:47 AM   
   
12:45 PM   
   
1:45 PM   
   
Red Deer   
   
24.71%   
   
11:51 AM   
   
12:44 PM   
   
1:39 PM   

For specific eclipse coverage and timing in your location, you can go to timeanddate.com to find detailed information.


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Safety Measures

Safety is paramount when viewing any solar eclipse, even a partial one. To ensure a safe and memorable experience, follow these crucial precautions:

  • Solar Viewing Glasses: Never attempt to observe the eclipse with the naked eye. Only use certified solar viewing glasses or eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 certification, specifically designed to protect your eyes from the Sun's harmful radiation.

  • Pinhole Projection: If eclipse glasses are unavailable, create a pinhole projector using common materials like cardboard. This indirect method allows you to project the eclipse safely onto a surface for viewing.

  • Telescopes and Binoculars: If using telescopes or binoculars, ensure they are equipped with proper solar filters to safeguard your eyes. Never aim them directly at the Sun without these protective measures.

  • Online Streaming: For those unable to view the eclipse in person or seeking a risk-free option, numerous reputable sources will provide live streaming of the event.

  • Local Eclipse Events: Consider joining local astronomy clubs or observatories hosting eclipse-viewing gatherings. These events offer expert guidance and a shared sense of community.

Please note that cloud cover could affect the ability to see the eclipse. Cloud cover is historically 60-80% for early April so be prepared for variable weather conditions and have alternative viewing options available.

Partial Solar Eclipse Will Be Visible Across Alberta on April 8th

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE MAP TO OPEN A ZOOMABLE IMAGE


Alberta is in for a rare celestial display of a solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024. While it won’t be a total solar eclipse that will be seen in the eastern provinces, this partial eclipse is still an event you don’t want to miss as the Moon moves across and blocks part of the Sun.

Here's what you need to know about this event and how to observe it safely.


GOOGLE AD (NOT ENDORSED BY INSTANT WEATHER)

Timing and Coverage

Residents across Alberta will see at least 10% sun coverage, except for the extreme northwest corner of the province which will see just less than 10% and coverage gradually increases moving south and east to just over 35% coverage in the southeast corner.

   
Location   
   
Max Coverage   
   
Partial Begins   
   
Maximum   
   
Partial Ends   
   
Banff   
   
24.08%   
   
11:48 AM   
   
12:41 PM   
   
1:35 PM   
   
Calgary   
   
26.24%   
   
11:48 AM   
   
12:43 PM   
   
1:38 PM   
   
Camrose   
   
24.82 %   
   
11:53 AM   
   
12:46 PM   
   
1:41 PM   
   
Edmonton   
   
23.23%   
   
11:54 AM   
   
12:46 PM   
   
1:39 PM   
   
Fort McMurray   
   
21.01%   
   
12:01 PM   
   
12:51 PM   
   
1:42 PM   
   
Grande Prairie   
   
15.30%   
   
11:57 AM   
   
12:42 PM   
   
1:29 PM   
   
Jasper   
   
18.73%   
   
11:52 AM   
   
12:41 PM   
   
1:30 PM   
   
Lethbridge   
   
30.10%   
   
11:45 AM   
   
12:43 PM   
   
1:41 PM   
   
Lloydminster   
   
27.97%   
   
11:45 AM   
   
12:43 PM   
   
1:46 PM   
   
Medicine Hat   
   
32.65%   
   
11:47 AM   
   
12:45 PM   
   
1:45 PM   
   
Red Deer   
   
24.71%   
   
11:51 AM   
   
12:44 PM   
   
1:39 PM   

For specific eclipse coverage and timing in your location, you can go to timeanddate.com to find detailed information.


GOOGLE AD (NOT ENDORSED BY INSTANT WEATHER)

Safety Measures

Safety is paramount when viewing any solar eclipse, even a partial one. To ensure a safe and memorable experience, follow these crucial precautions:

  • Solar Viewing Glasses: Never attempt to observe the eclipse with the naked eye. Only use certified solar viewing glasses or eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 certification, specifically designed to protect your eyes from the Sun's harmful radiation.

  • Pinhole Projection: If eclipse glasses are unavailable, create a pinhole projector using common materials like cardboard. This indirect method allows you to project the eclipse safely onto a surface for viewing.

  • Telescopes and Binoculars: If using telescopes or binoculars, ensure they are equipped with proper solar filters to safeguard your eyes. Never aim them directly at the Sun without these protective measures.

  • Online Streaming: For those unable to view the eclipse in person or seeking a risk-free option, numerous reputable sources will provide live streaming of the event.

  • Local Eclipse Events: Consider joining local astronomy clubs or observatories hosting eclipse-viewing gatherings. These events offer expert guidance and a shared sense of community.

Please note that cloud cover could affect the ability to see the eclipse. Cloud cover is historically 60-80% for early April so be prepared for variable weather conditions and have alternative viewing options available.

Partial Solar Eclipse to Be Visible Across the Prairies on Saturday

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE MAP TO OPEN A ZOOMABLE IMAGE


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The Prairies are in for a celestial treat as we prepare to witness a partial view of the annular solar eclipse on Saturday, October 14, 2023. While not the full "ring of fire" experience seen in some parts of the world, this partial eclipse promises a captivating display of the Moon partially obscuring the Sun's disk.

Here's what you need to know about this event and how to observe it safely.


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Timing and Coverage

On Saturday, residents across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta will be treated to a partial glimpse of the annular solar eclipse. Though not a total eclipse, it will still offer a unique astronomical spectacle. The degree of coverage will vary across the region ranging from over 60% in Southwestern Alberta to 30% in Northeastern Manitoba.


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Solar Eclipse Timing Across the Prairies

Solar Eclipse Timing Across the Prairies

Location Max Obscuration Start Max End
Brandon (MB) 45.9% 10:25 AM CDT 11:39 AM 12:58 PM
Calgary (AB) 60.8% 9:14 AM MDT 10:26 AM 11:45 AM
Edmonton (AB) 53.6% 9:17 AM MDT 10:28 AM 11:44 AM
Fort McMurray (AB) 43.8% 9:23 AM MDT 10:31 AM 11:43 AM
Grande Prairie (AB) 54.7% 9:16 AM MDT 10:25 AM 11:39 AM
La Ronge (SK) 41.1% 9:26 AM CST 10:35 AM 11:48 AM
Lethbridge (AB) 63.1% 9:13 AM MDT 10:27 AM 11:47 AM
Lloydminster (SK) 50.5% 9:19 AM MDT 10:30 AM 11:46 AM
Medicine Hat (AB) 59.4% 9:15 AM MDT 10:29 AM 11:48 AM
Moose Jaw (SK) 52.1% 9:20 AM CST 10:33 AM 11:52 AM
Prince Albert (SK) 45.8% 9:23 AM CST 10:34 AM 11:49 AM
Red Deer (AB) 57.3% 9:15 AM MDT 10:27 AM 11:44 AM
Regina (SK) 50.7% 9:20 AM CST 10:34 AM 11:53 AM
Saskatoon (SK) 49.3% 9:20 AM CST 10:33 AM 11:50 AM
The Pas (MB) 39.2% 10:28 AM CDT 11:38 AM 12:52 PM
Thompson (MB) 31.9% 10:35 AM CDT 11:42 AM 12:52 PM
Winnipeg (MB) 42.0% 10:28 AM CDT 11:42 AM 1:00 PM

For specific eclipse coverage and timing in your location, you can go to timeanddate.com to find detailed information.


GOOGLE AD (NOT ENDORSED BY INSTANT WEATHER)

Safety Measures

Safety is paramount when viewing any solar eclipse, even a partial one. To ensure a safe and memorable experience, follow these crucial precautions:

  • Solar Viewing Glasses: Never attempt to observe the eclipse with the naked eye. Only use certified solar viewing glasses or eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 certification, specifically designed to protect your eyes from the Sun's harmful radiation.

  • Pinhole Projection: If eclipse glasses are unavailable, create a pinhole projector using common materials like cardboard. This indirect method allows you to project the eclipse safely onto a surface for viewing.

  • Telescopes and Binoculars: If using telescopes or binoculars, ensure they are equipped with proper solar filters to safeguard your eyes. Never aim them directly at the Sun without these protective measures.

  • Online Streaming: For those unable to view the eclipse in person or seeking a risk-free option, numerous reputable sources will provide live streaming of the event.

  • Local Eclipse Events: Consider joining local astronomy clubs or observatories hosting eclipse-viewing gatherings. These events offer expert guidance and a shared sense of community.


GOOGLE AD (NOT ENDORSED BY INSTANT WEATHER)

GOOGLE AD (NOT ENDORSED BY INSTANT WEATHER)

Please note that cloud cover could affect the ability to see the eclipse. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and have alternative viewing options available. We will be closely tracking the forecast over the coming days and will have more updates on our social media pages.

As you anticipate the partial view of the annular solar eclipse on Saturday, remember to prioritize safety while immersing yourself in this celestial marvel. With proper precautions and a sense of awe, you can make the most of this extraordinary astronomical event.

Damage Reports Near Wainwright Area From Tuesday, May 18, 2021

Here are some of the report and photos of the storm damage that occurred during the afternoon of Tuesday May 18 2021 near Wainwright. Thank you to everyone who shared their experience and reports with us and our thoughts are with those who were affected.

Paul L. writes: “Poles and trees down just west of Wainwright”

Carson R. “10 or so power poles snapped off 4 feet from the ground west of Wainwright”

Charleen T. “Had our 150 foot cattle shed torn in half. Poles pulled 4 feet out of the ground, wooden debris in the trees and the metal roof picked up and taken over the trees to land on the ditch on the other side. Trampoline tossed into the trees but the sandbox toys right beside we’re not disturbed…..” West of Paradise Valley


Glenda P shared these photos of downed poles 2km west of Wainright.


Charlene T. had three big evergreen trees uprooted in Wainwright. One is pictured below:

Charlene T - Wainright

Charlene T - Wainright


Lisa C. sent us these photos of her place in Wainwright.

Lisa C - Wainwright

Lisa C - Wainwright

Lisa C - Wainwright

Lisa C - Wainwright


Dominique R. sent us this picture of a horse shelter that was destroyed. They also had soffit that flew away and a shed that collapsed.

Dominique R - Wainwright

Dominique R - Wainwright


A well know business (Webb’s Machinery ) experienced substantial damage in the storm:

Edward C. - Webb’s

Edward C. - Webb’s


Bonnie WS shared these photos:


Debbie FR. reported “Hello, yes we had broken power poles , lost shingles and trees, hail . Our pool is in the trees and fence! Lots of flying trampolines and buildings. … We were out watching the storm roll in! Lots of loud rolling thunder! Wind picked up out of nowhere and blew furniture everywhere! Started raining big fat raindrops then turned to dime size hail for about 20 minutes! The wind and hail
Blew all the fresh green leaves off ! Looked like it had rained lettuce! Blue skies after about 20 minutes! Winds were very loud and clouds twirling”

Debbie F.R. Wainwright

Debbie F.R. Wainwright

Debbie F. R. - Wainwright

Debbie F. R. - Wainwright


Melaine P. reported “It just came up quickly! There was a lot of force with it. The light posts in our parking lot were wavering pretty good. Didn’t really see any damage, just small branches broken. The dirt that it was blowing made visibility not that great at times. We witnessed it from the second floor of our building, facing south. It lasted for probably 45 min to an hour, when the wind came down”


Julie D-C writes “My barn had a lot of damages: the front collapsed, a few panels flew away with shingles. We live North East of Wainwright, by Gilt Edge Hall.”

Julie D-C - Wainwright

Julie D-C - Wainwright


Darlene G - North of Wainwright

Darlene G - North of Wainwright


Chance F writes “Ripped the roof off a building right in front of us … But we were right in the middle of it and it was crazy. Truck was shaking and things were blowing everywhere. 8 power poles snapped in half about 200 yards from me”


Sandra C

Sandra C


Dian D. “Part of our roof was ripped off and what I witnessed prior to this was formation of what I thought dust devil or something to that effect in the fields neighbouring us to the south west”. Dian also share what the sky looked like just before.


Darren Jury “We lost a large tree inour driveway. Snapped off at 9’”

Darren J

Darren J


Chelsea L. sent us this video and wrote "This was south of Sedgewick around 245..."

Thank you for your help and we have submitted all of your reports to the NTP for further investigation.

Fireball Lights Up the Early Morning Sky in Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia

This article was last updated on February 25.

Did you see the fireball this morning? Capture it on video? If you did you can send in a report to the International Meteor Organization (IMO) or American Meteor Society (AMS). Below is a video that was submitted to the AMS by Marie.

This video has been uploaded on the American Meteor Society Website. AMS Event: 978-2021, Report 222919 (978ag-2021) - Edmonton CA\nMore info here: AMS Event...

From the following NASA Meteor Watch’s post, the meteor occurred at 6:23 AM (2021 February 22) and was first visible above Skeleton Lake and moved south of west before ablating above Perryvale:

Bright fireball seen over Alberta early this morning (2021 February 22 @ 6:23 AM) There have been over 150 reports of...

Posted by NASA Meteor Watch on Monday, February 22, 2021

Weather satellites that monitor lightning also imaged this meteor because it was so bright:

The Alberta fireball was also imaged from space... It was bright enough to be detected by the Geostationary Lightning Mappers onboard the GOES 16 and 17 weather satellites.

Posted by NASA Meteor Watch on Monday, February 22, 2021

Here is the current map showing the locations of the observers from the event page on the International Meteor Organization website.

AlbertaMeteor.png

There has been enough data to estimate the size, mass and orbit of some recent bright meteors. We will update this article if more information about the meteor becomes available.

Update February 23: There are now 7 videos of the meteor can be found at the IMO event page. Including this one from Mieszko in Edmonton.

Bright streak (maybe a comet or a meteor) over Edmonton, Alberta on February 22, 2021

Update February 24: AMS has received over 100 videos and 400 reports for this meteor. They produced this fantastic video with music (hint turn on the sound) featuring some of the videos that they received.

More info here: http://www.amsmeteors.org/2021/02/bright-fireball-over-alberta-canada-on-february-22-2021/

Update February 25: University of Alberta researchers were able to calculate the orbit of the meteor. Due to the speed and the orbit they have concluded that the meteor was a fragment of a comet about the size of a grapefruit up to basketball. More details can be found here.

Alberta: 2020 Summary of Tornadoes and Other Investigated Events

NTP summary of events

NTP summary of events

Below is a summary of the events in Alberta that were investigated by the Northern Tornadoes Project as of December 16, 2020. There are 11 confirmed tornadoes, 6 downbursts, and 1 unclassified wind damage event. There were also 27 non-tornadic events that were investigated. Links to the summaries for the other provinces can be found here.

Below is a map from the NTP Dashboard showing the location of the tornadoes.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes

Below is a map from the NTP Dashboard showing the location of the downbursts and unclassified wind event.

Downbursts

Downbursts

The details of the events are listed below and the comments are taken directly from the NTP Interactive Dashboard. Tip for viewing the table on a phone - try turning your phone so that you are in landscape mode.

Our thoughts are with all those affected by severe storms this year.

2020 Provincial Summaries

More provinces will be added once their summaries are completed.