A tornado watch has been issued for much of the southwest.

Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes.

Severe thunderstorms will develop in the late afternoon and will initially be discrete before coalescing into a line in the evening and overnight period. During the initial convective period, as these storms are discrete, there will be an enhanced risk for tornadoes to form with these severe thunderstorms. There is the risk for a long track tornado with the development of these supercells.

This is 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 shelters, 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. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!

Tornado watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes.

Refer to the chart below to see if your area is affected. More detailed area information can be found by clicking on the map regions here.

 

Tornado Watch