A tornado watch is in effect Wednesday for the Mountain View County and Red Deer County and most of the urban centres within their geographical boundaries.
“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes. Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible,” Environment Canada said in its July 24 afternoon updated alert.
A watch is initiated when conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms with one or more tornadoes.
Thunderstorms may develop in the foothills later this afternoon, the federal agency says. If they develop, they will become severe with very large hail, very strong winds, and a risk of a tornado, the watch says.
"This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation. Be prepared for severe weather," the watch said.
The watch is in effect for:
• Mountain View County near Carstairs, Stirlingville, Cremona, Water Valley, Olds, Didsbury and Sundre.
• Red Deer County near Penhold, Innisfail, Bowden, Spruce View, Red Lodge Provincial Park, Sylvan Lake, Pine Lake, Elnora, Lopusana and Delburne