Tornado watch issued for areas across west-central Alberta
A tornado watch has been issued for some parts of Alberta due to severe thunderstorms popping up Wednesday afternoon.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued the watches just before 5 p.m. for a large portion of west-central Alberta due to conditions that are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms, which may produce tornadoes.
ECCC stated that strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible. Some severe thunderstorms that occur in these regions may produce a tornado. The greatest tornado risk is between 5 and 8 p.m.
“This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation. Be prepared for severe weather,” the watch added.
In the event of a tornado, or if a tornado warning is issued for your area, it is recommended you take the following actions: Go indoors to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows, such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet. Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers, and other temporary or freestanding shelters, and move to a sturdy building if possible. As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris.
Tornado watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes.
Areas under the tornado watch as of 5 p.m. include Drayton Valley, Calmar, Devon, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Whitecourt, Edson, and Westlock.
Numerous areas are also under a severe thunderstorm watch as well, including the City of Edmonton, with large hail and strong wind gusts the main concern if storms manage to arrive in YEG this evening.
The full list of ECCC weather alerts can be found online.