With severe weather warnings in the forecast and the first day of summer passing Thursday, June 21, Environment Canada has some suggestions for the summer severe weather coming to the prairies.

John Paul Cragg, Warning Preparedness Meteorologist for Environment Canada, says along with summer comes some severe weather.

"We're in the middle of summer severe weather season on the prairies, and it's important this time of year to keep on top of the forecast, especially if you're going to be out for an extended period of time during the day. Just watch for those thunderstorms and know what to do if a storm comes through your area," he said.

Cragg says the risk of lightning can come with any type of thunderstorm, and it's important to plan outdoor activities around storms to avoid any danger.

"Lightning kills and injures more Canadians than any other summer severe weather type, so it's really important even if it's just a garden variety thunderstorm, if there's thunder and lightning associated, you're at risk if you're outside," said Cragg.

He says at any sign of thunder it is strongly advised to take shelter, and remain there until 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder is heard .

"Even though the days are getting shorter, we're just getting started in terms of summer weather," said Cragg.

 

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