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When Hail Struck Royal Oak:
When Hail Struck Royal Oak:
One Family's Forty Seven Thousand Dollar Lesson - Extreme Weather Protection
Author
May 20, 2026
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Trivia Question
In 2024, a single hailstone fell in Calgary that was larger than a Canadian two dollar coin (28mm). How big was it and what common object was it compared to?
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter! |
Seven Minutes That Changed Everything
It was August 5, 2024. The Chen family had lived in their Royal Oak home for six years. Like many NW Calgary residents, they knew about hail. They had heard the warnings. They had seen the forecasts.
But they did not know what was coming.
At 3:47 PM, the sky turned grey. By 3:52 PM, ice was hammering their roof, shattering their skylights, and denting their two vehicles beyond repair. Seven minutes later, silence returned along with forty seven thousand dollars in damage. image:artemis.bm
Watch the destruction unfold - City News: Calgary Hail Damage Video
At 0:29 - Car body panels destroyed by direct hits
The Size of Destruction
The hailstones that struck Royal Oak ranged from 28 millimeters to over 45 millimeters. At terminal velocity, these ice projectiles hit with the force of a major league fastball.
The August 5, 2024 storm caused 3.29 billion dollars in damage, making it one of the costliest weather events in Canadian history.
Source: Insurance Bureau of Canada and CatIQ |
This Week in NW Calgary
Shrek the Musical - A Family Tradition Returns
When: May 20 - June 21, 2026
This is not just a childrens show. Storybook Theatre has called this venue home for nearly 50 years, launching countless Calgary acting careers from this intimate 200-seat space. Local actor Jennifer Walsh got her start here at age 8. Now her daughter is auditioning for the same shows. Perfect for families, date night, or anyone who loves a good laugh.
Mamma Mia - ABBA Live on Stage
When: May 19-24, 2026
Twenty two ABBA hits woven into a story about family, love, and Greek islands. Whether you grew up with ABBA or discovered them through Mamma Mia movies, this production delivers pure joy. Last chance to catch this Broadway Across Canada production right here in NW Calgary.
Calgary Marathon - Community Spirit on Display
When: May 23-24, 2026
Over ten thousand runners will hit Calgary streets this weekend. Even if you are not running, come cheer at the finish line in Memorial Park. The energy is infectious, and you might find inspiration for your own fitness journey.
North Haven Community Garage Sales
When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 - 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Over twenty five homes participating. One persons clutter is another persons treasure. Pro tip: Bring cash, arrive early for best selection, and chat with neighbors. Some of the best community connections happen over garage sale negotiations. |
Weekend Preparation Tasks
This Weekend: Walk your property and photograph your roof, siding, and vehicles. These photos prove the condition of your property before any storm. If hail damage occurs, you have before-and-after documentation for insurance claims.
Trim overhanging branches near your home. Secure outdoor furniture and decorations, wind damage mitigation. Move vehicles into garage when storms threaten. Review your insurance policy. Know your deductible and what is covered, comprehensive weather insurance including flood protection policies and general storm damage coverage
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Text SectionA small token of appreciation: The Ultimate Weather Radio Guide. |
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Discover Hidden Gems in Your Backyard
Nose Hill Park - Wilderness in the City
Over 180 plant species call this park home, including rare native grassland ecosystems found nowhere else in Calgary. At 11.5 square kilometers, it is one of Canadas largest urban natural environment parks.
Why Visit: Escape the city without leaving it. Spot deer, coyotes, and over 100 bird species. The sunset views over downtown are unmatched. Perfect for hiking, photography, or finding peace on a busy day.
Access: Multiple entry points throughout NW Calgary. Free parking. Open daily from 5 AM to 11 PM.
Calgary Farmers Market - Local Food, Real Connections
Location: 510 77 Avenue SE (Note: This is the main market location. For NW Calgary residents, visit the Market on Macleod or check their website for pop-up locations)
One hundred forty one vendors. Eighty percent Alberta-made or grown. This is not a tourist trap. It is where local farmers, bakers, and artisans sell what they have made with their own hands.
Why Go: Talk to the person who grew your tomatoes. Ask the baker about their sourdough starter. Discover products you will never find in a chain store. Many vendors are third-generation family businesses with stories worth hearing.
Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
NW Calgary Wetlands - Nature Worth Protecting
The wetlands in Tuscany and Royal Oak are not just drainage ditches. They are carefully preserved ecosystems providing habitat for over 100 bird species. Community members designed the walking paths to give residents nature access without development.
Why They Matter: These wetlands filter stormwater naturally, reducing flood risk. They provide free recreation. They remind us that nature and community can coexist.
Explore: Walking paths connect multiple NW communities. Bring binoculars for bird watching. Visit at dawn or dusk for best wildlife viewing.
Your community is full of hidden gems. Go discover them. |
Your Hail Season Action Plan
This Month: Schedule a free roof inspection if your home is over 10 years old. Research Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. Ask your insurance broker about hail-resistant material discounts.
Claw Roofing has served Calgary since 2002 with an A+ BBB rating. 📍 902 – 4555 Varsity Lane NW, Calgary
Calgary Air Heating & Cooling serves NW Calgary with 24/7 service. 📍 95 Beaconsfield Rise NW, Calgary
Hail Alert Sources:
Preparation today prevents panic tomorrow. |
Trivia Answer
Question: In 2024, a single hailstone fell in Calgary that was larger than a Canadian two dollar coin (28mm). How big was it and what common object was it compared to?
Answer: The largest verified hailstone from the August 5, 2024 storm measured 45 millimeters, the size of a golf ball.
For comparison: A Canadian two dollar coin is 28 millimeters. A golf ball is 45.67 millimeters. Some unverified reports suggested stones up to tennis ball size in isolated areas.
The August 5, 2024 storm caused over 3.29 billion dollars in damage, making it one of the costliest weather events in Canadian history.
Did you get it right? Whether you guessed correctly or learned something new, we hope you will take action to protect your home this hail season. |