CBC Eyeopener heads to 'hail alley' for walking show

CBC Radio's Calgary Eyeopener is bringing its walking show to the northwest community of Evanston on Wednesday, diving into the realities of living in what many call "hail alley."

Hosts Loren McGinnis and Angela Knight, alongside the crew, will spend Wednesday from 6 to 8:30 a.m. at Evanston Community Park on Symons Valley Parkway, exploring what makes the area so susceptible to hailstorms—nearly two years after a severe hailstorm pummelled the region.

With storm season already upon us, the team will tackle the practical questions residents are living with: what building materials offer the best protection, how insurance coverage works in a high-risk area, and how the community has rebuilt and grown since the damage.

An insurance broker will be on hand answering audience questions about deductibles, coverage limits, and whether insurers will continue to serve northern Calgary communities in a warming climate.

Many residents are still repairing or replacing damaged vinyl siding and dented cars—constant reminders of the volatility of hail season. The show offers a chance to connect with community members facing the same challenges and to hear from experts about what residents can actually do to prepare.

Coffee and swag will be available for anyone who wants to stop by and say hi. It's a rare chance to ask the questions that matter to people rebuilding in a neighbourhood defined by weather risk.