Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Calgary

The storm initially moved through Cochrane Monday before passing over Calgary.

A severe thunderstorm watch was issued for Calgary Monday.

Despite sunny skies and warm temperatures, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) posted the watch just before noon.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain,” ECCC posted.

“Thunderstorms have developed over the foothills and Cypress Hills. These thunderstorms will move to the east and northeast. A few of the thunderstorms could become severe.”

At 2:26 p.m., the watch was upgraded to a severe thunderstorm warning.

“Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing up to nickel size hail and heavy rain.

“The main thunderstorms are near Priddis and just east of Cochrane. The storms are moving to the southeast at 25 km/h.”

Monday’s forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud, with a 60 per cent chance of showers and risk of a thunderstorm.