Meteorologists with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) have issued a Tornado Watch for the Whitecourt-Edson-Fox Creek-Swan Hills areas this afternoon.
Other areas of the Tornado Watch also include the Westlock-Barrhead-Athabasca areas, and the Spruce Grove-Morinville-Mayerthorpe-Evansburg areas.
Officials say conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes. The most favourable timeframe for tornado development will be later this afternoon into this evening as the thunderstorms move northeast across north-central Alberta.
Hailstones up to baseball size will accompany any severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado, say ECCC officials. This is described as a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation. Be prepared for severe weather. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches.
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 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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