Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for St. Albert, warning residents that conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous weather, including large hail, strong wind gusts, and heavy rainfall.
The watch, which includes St. Albert, Edmonton, and Sherwood Park, remains in effect until midnight. Forecasters say thunderstorms are forming over the Alberta foothills and are expected to move northeast throughout the afternoon and evening.
“These thunderstorms will weaken later this evening,” the alert read, but not before potentially bringing damaging weather. Residents are advised to monitor conditions closely and be prepared to take shelter if necessary.
In addition to the thunderstorm watch, a Special Weather Statement is in effect until 6 p.m. for the same region. Environment Canada said conditions may also lead to the formation of funnel clouds or even landspout tornadoes—relatively weak, short-lived tornadoes that can still cause localized damage.
“Treat any funnel cloud sighting seriously. Should a funnel cloud develop nearby, prepare to take shelter,” the advisory read.
Landspout tornadoes are typically generated by weak rotation under rapidly growing clouds or thunderstorms and often appear with little or no warning. While not usually destructive, they are capable of toppling trees, damaging roofs, or tossing debris.
Environment Canada is urging the public to be cautious and report severe weather to [email protected], by calling 1-800-239-0484, or posting to social media using the hashtag #ABStorm.
As of early Friday afternoon, the weather in St. Albert included rain and temperatures around 17°C. Thunderstorms are expected to continue intermittently through the weekend, particularly on Sunday and again early next week.
Officials recommend staying indoors during lightning, securing outdoor objects, and avoiding travel during severe conditions.
