Tornado, severe thunderstorm watch issued for north-central Alberta

Storm clouds build over a highway in southern Alberta near the town of Carstairs on Monday, July 4, 2016. FILE PHOTO - THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

Thunderstorms are expected to develop in the northern foothills late this afternoon and this evening.

Some of those storms have the potential to turn severe this evening and overnight as they move east.

Large hail, heavy downpours, and potentially damaging gusts are the primary threats from these storms.

Conditions are also favourable for the development of a tornado, especially in areas southwest of Edmonton this evening.

For Edmonton and area, the risk of severe storms will be late this evening and overnight, roughly between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for all the areas in yellow on the map below and a tornado watch for the areas in grey to the west and southwest of Edmonton.

Reminder: a watch means severe storms are possible. A warning means the severe weather is imminent or occurring.

As always - most areas within the watch zone will not see severe weather. However, given the uncertainty with exactly where these storms will develop, anyone within the watch zone should prepare as if the storm will hit their area. Secure loose objects outdoors and keep an eye on further weather alerts.

If a tornado warning is issued for your area:

Go indoors to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows (basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet). Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers, etc. and move to a strong building if possible. If trapped outside, make yourself as small as possible to protect yourself from flying debris.