Parts of Manitoba under tornado watch

A scenic shot of the lake in Riding Mountain National Park. (Source: Bradley Abells)

A low pressure system could brew severe thunderstorms and potential tornado activity in parts of Manitoba.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued a tornado watch for areas in the southwest, including Dauphin, Russell, Riding Mountain National Park, Roblin and Minnedosa.

According to the weather agency, the system coming from Saskatchewan is set to track through southwest Manitoba by early Thursday night, bringing a chance of severe thunderstorms that could produce tornadoes.

Large hail up to six centimetres, wind gusts up to 110 km/h, and heavy rain are also likely.

“This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation. Be prepared for severe weather. Take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches,” the weather alert said.

In the event of the tornado, the weather agency advises going indoors to a room on the lowest floor, staying away from outside walls and windows, like a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet, leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers or 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 falling debris.

Much of the southwest is also under a severe thunderstorm watch, with similar conditions expected, including large hail, strong winds and heavy rain.