Update** Thunderstorm watch that was issued early Sunday morning has ended for Strathmore and surrounding areas. 

 

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing funnel clouds and heavy rain today. Nickel size hail and strong wind gusts are also possible.

  • A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Strathmore and surrounding areas including:
  • Wheatland County near Hussar, Standard, Gleichen, and Carseland 
  • Rockyview Country 
  • Chestermere 
  • Vulcan County 
  • Bassano 
  • Brooks

These types of funnel clouds are generated by rotation under rapidly growing thunderstorms and are normally not a danger near the ground. However, there is a chance that this rotation could intensify and become a short-lived tornado.

Landspout tornadoes do not usually cause significant damage but can still be dangerous. They can be strong enough to topple trees, damage roofs or toss debris short distances.

Treat any funnel cloud sighting seriously. Should a funnel cloud develop nearby, prepare to take shelter. These funnel clouds usually appear with little or no warning.

Continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ABstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ABStorm