Calgary is known as a Hailstorm Alley for a reason. The region faces frequent devastating hail storms that not only greatly damage the property of the residents but also cause flooding and damage to utility lines.

When we talk about devastating hailstorms, the top on Calgary’s list is the June 2020 hailstorm that produced hail larger than golf balls shredding, siding off homes and smashing car windows. This was the fourth most expensive natural disaster in Canadian history with over $1.2 billion in insured damage.

Unfortunately, last year was not a breeze either. We saw another massive hailstorm on July 2, 2021.

The July 2, 2021 Hailstorm

The hailstorm was reported to have caused flash flooding. It broke tree branches and battered homes resulting in up to $247 million in insured damage.

The flooding was mainly seen in streets, underpasses and parking lots. According to reports, the downed trees also damaged gas lines and caused sewer backups in basements and commercial buildings.

This hailstorm was also listed on Environment Canada’s list of the Top 10 Weather Stories of 2021. This list has been compiled by senior climatologist Dave Phillips who has been at it for two decades now.

His picks for the list include the most descriptive and expensive weather events of the year. This hailstorm made its way to the 8th spot on the list.

Types Of Emergencies

Although Calgarians expect a hailstorm every now and then, nobody was ready for such a devastating event. The Calgary fire department detailed that they received almost 200 calls between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30. In a statement, they said,

“At approximately 7 p.m., fire crews were busy at over 70 different incidents around the city, all at the same time,” the CFD said in a July 2nd news release. “This meant almost every single fire truck and crew available were out on an emergency call.”

The type of emergencies faced included:

• Calls for reports of lightning, one of which caused an attic fire.
• A strip mall portion collapsed, causing gas pipeline damage.
• Flooded streets and intersections.
• Motorists stranded in floods.
• Manhole covers blown off.
• Downed trees and branches.

Resilient Roofing

Most homeowners who had previously shifted to resilient roofing before the storm saw minimal roof damage.

To continue raising awareness regarding resilient roofing materials among Calgarians, the City Of Calgary Resilient Roofing program has been extended and updated.

Under this rebate, homeowners who have incurred hail damage (and as of January 2022 all homeowners) who want to install resilient roofing will be granted a $3,000 rebate. The eligibility criteria are fairly simple. Once your application is approved, all you need to do is hire an AARA member roofing company to install your resilient roofing. You can read more about the updated program here.

About AKRoN Roofing

AKRoN Roofing is a fully insured roofing contractor and a proud member of BBB with an A+ Rating. We are part of a marketplace of trust and integrity. Moreover, our company is a member of the Alberta Allied Roofing Association. Hence, if you are planning on applying for a rebate, we can help you out.

Our company is a small business in Southern Alberta offering full services and special attention to detail with quality customer service from our owners that only small companies can provide. In addition to providing services like flat roofing, skylight installation and roof repairs, we also offer insurance claims to help you in navigating your insurance claims.

AKRoN Roofing has extensive experience working with insurance companies on behalf of homeowners. We have the know-how and credentials to help you handle this process with confidence.