A tornado watch is in effect for Red Deer and much of Central Alberta.
At 2:55 p.m. on Thursday, Environment Canada issued the watch for a number of communities.
“This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation,” said Environment Canada.
“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes. Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible.”
Central Albertans are being asked to be prepared for severe weather and to take cover immediately if threatening weather approached.
A tornado watch has been issued for the city of Red Deer. Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes. Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible.https://t.co/ivQ6rRX6fJ #RedDeer
— The City of Red Deer (@CityofRedDeer) July 7, 2022
Tornado watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes
Meanwhile, a tornado warning is in effect for Mountain View County near Sundre. (Tornado warnings are issued when imminent or occurring thunderstorms are likely to produce or are producing tornadoes.)
Environment Canada issued the warning at 2:35 p.m. on Thursday as meteorologists tracked a severe thunderstorm that is possibly producing a tornado.
“Damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall are also possible,” Environment Canada said.
“Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches. If you hear a roaring sound or see a funnel cloud, swirling debris near the ground, flying debris, or any threatening weather approaching, take shelter immediately.”
Rapid motion with funnel NW of Bergen, Alberta #abstorm 2:37PM @PrairieChasers pic.twitter.com/7ZdQgjLXmA
— Braydon Morisseau (@BraydonMoreSo) July 7, 2022
Environment Canada warns people to 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 free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can. As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris.”
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