Atlantis Launch & U2

This severe thunderstorm produced tornadoes near Olds and Sundrie, Alberta.

Lots going on today in the weather world. First major storms struck southern Alberta last evening producing at least 3 tornadoes. Storms were fierce with up to 60mm or rain in under 2 hours and winds over 100km/h. One tornado was reported near Sundrie with minor damage reported. Environment Canada will be investigating today. More severe weather is occurring this morning.

Meanwhile the big Montreal event many have been waiting for is here. the U2 concert will be held outdoors in the central part of Montreal tonight and aging tomorrow evening. It is expected at least 160,000 fans will flock to the event. At this time the weather looks good for tonight and awesome for the weekend. We have some high clouds around at the moment and they will lower and thicken during the day with just a slight risk of a spotty shower. There is no rain expected Saturday. temperatures both days will be warm near 27C.


Space Shuttle Atlantis: The 135th launch in space is schedule to take place at 11:26am this morning when Atlantis lift of the pad at Cape Canaveral, Florida. At this time the weather is suspect at best. There is lots of moisture around in response to a tropical wave in the Gulf of Mexico (that is another story). Clouds and lots of moisture are in the air and shuttle control would like clear skies for the event expected to draw millions of viewers. The launch is the last in the 30 year shuttle program. I can't tell you how excited I was on Sunday, April 12, 1981 when the first shuttle lifted off. I actually taped it on an audio cassette of the TV. Lets hope they get safely off the ground. Currently it is overcast and muggy at Cape Canaveral. A decision will have to be made shortly. Yesterday lightning struck dangerously close to the launch pad, but no damage was reported.
**As of 8:30am the astronauts are in the shuttle and the launch as at least a chance of liftoff.

Above: The Space Shuttle Atlantis sits on the launch pad last night waiting for today's 11:26 launch. Below: A lightning strike hits the pad coming oh so close to the shuttle yesterday. (NASA photos)

Complete shuttle coverage can be found HERE.