Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain, according to Environment Canada.
A low pressure system developing over central Alberta will produce thunderstorms through western and central areas of the province this afternoon. Some of these thunderstorms that form have the potential to become severe.
Depending how this system continues to develop watches may be expanded farther north and east as the day progresses.
Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles.
Environment Canada stated that severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.
Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds, torrential rainfall.