A tornado watch is in effect for areas north of Calgary up towards Red Deer on Wednesday afternoon.
Environment Canada issued the watch around 2:30 p.m. and say conditions are favourable for severe thunderstorms which could produce tornadoes.
The areas under the watch include Cochrane, Airdrie, Drumheller, Sundre and Red Deer.
“Thunderstorms may develop in the foothills later this afternoon,” reads the advisory from Environment Canada meteorologists. “If they develop, they will become severe with very large hail, very strong winds, and a risk of a tornado.”
People are being urged to take immediately if threatening weather approaches. This includes going inside to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows.
“Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can,” says ECCC. “As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris.”
Calgary and much of southern and central Alberta remain under a heat warning. Things are expected to finally cool down on Thursday.