Tornado risk for parts of northern, central Alberta; severe storm forecast for Edmonton

Orange-level severe thunderstorm watch issued for Edmonton

Albertans located west and north of Edmonton are being warned about the possibility of a tornado Tuesday afternoon.

According to an Alberta Emergency Alert issued at 12:45 p.m., severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes may develop Tuesday, with the greatest risk for tornadoes between 4 and 8 p.m.

"Any thunderstorm capable of producing tornadoes will be accompanied by hail up to the size of baseballs and torrential rain," the alert states.

Environment Canada has issued a yellow-level tornado watch, stating that "significant damage or destruction to infrastructure, homes and the natural environment is possible."

The watch is in effect for a wide area, including Boyle, Drayton Valley, Yellowhead County, Woodlands County, Spruce Grove and Wetaskiwin County.

Environment Canada has also issued an orange-level severe thunderstorm watch for Edmonton. The advisory notes that severe thunderstorms are possible in the region late Tuesday afternoon and evening, but much of the risk is due to the significant rainfall the city has seen recently.

"The main hazard is torrential rain on top of already saturated ground, though any severe storm will carry the risk of large hail and damaging winds," the watch states.

The watch notes heavy rain can cause flash flooding and strong wind gusts can damage trees, buildings and overturn vehicles.