Severe thunderstorm watches issued for much of southern Alberta

A storm’s a brewin’ in southern Alberta.

Environment Canada has issued multiple severe thunderstorm watches for regions around Calgary, including the city itself.

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The watches are currently in effect for Airdrie, Cochrane, Olds, Sundre, Brooks, Strathmore, Vulcan, the City of Calgary, Drumheller, Three Hills, Okotoks, High River, an Claresholm.

Environment Canada alert map (Environment Canada)

None of the watches have been upgraded to full-blown warnings as of 5 pm, though residents in these areas are still being warned that “conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.”

The storms are expected to develop into the evening, and some may become severe, according to Environment Canada.

“Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!”