Tornado warning, watches end as severe storms track across central Alberta

A tornado warning and a number of watches have ended for areas north of Calgary up towards Red Deer as severe thunderstorms moved across the province late Wednesday.

Environment Canada meteorologists said they were tracking storms within Lacombe County, near Lacombe and Blackfalds, that could produce damaging wind gusts, baseball size or greater hail and heavy rain.

A tornado warning for the area ended before 9:30 p.m. A tornado watch has also ended for a number of other areas closer to Calgary, including Cochrane, Airdrie, Drumheller, Sundre and Red Deer.

Environment Canada says residents should take cover 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.