A Tornado Watch has been issused for Rocky Mountain House, Crimson Lake and Clearwater County areas.

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes. Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible.

Officials say severe thunderstorms that may produce tornadoes will develop in the mid to late afternoon and progress to the east. The tornado threat is expected to diminish in the late evening. Significant damage or destruction to infrastructure, homes and the natural environment is possible.

Area: Brazeau Co. near Cynthia and Lodgepole

Affected areas (8):

• Brazeau County
• Burnstick Lake
• Caroline
• Clearwater County
• O’Chiese 203
• Rocky Mountain House
• Sunchild 202
• Yellowhead County

Action to take:

• In the event of a tornado, or if a tornado warning is issued for your area: 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
• Be prepared for severe weather
• If you hear a roaring sound or see a funnel cloud, swirling debris near the ground, flying debris, or any threatening weather approaching, take cover immediately
• When out on the water, be prepared for severe weather
• If threatening weather approaches make for shore and take shelter immediately
• It is particularly dangerous to be on a small craft on the open water when lightning is occurring

Tornado watches are issued when conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes.

Click here for the latest weather watches and warnings throughout Alberta and here for current emergency alerts.