Tornado watch issued for southeast Alberta including Lethbridge Thursday
Environment Canada downgraded a red warning to orange-level watch after tracking a severe thunderstorm near Warner, about 280 kilometres southeast of Calgary.
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A tornado watch has been issued for parts of southeast Alberta, including Lethbridge and surrounding areas, after Environment Canada tracked a severe thunderstorm near Warner, approximately 280 kilometres southeast of Calgary.
The watch was downgraded from a red warning at about 4 p.m. Thursday and has been in effect since about 3 p.m. that day. A yellow-level severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect for some areas near Warner.
If a tornado warning is issued, residents are urged to take shelter in a basement, inner room or sturdy space. Environment Canada warns that damaging winds, large hail and intense rainfall are also possible. "If you hear a roaring sound or see a funnel cloud, swirling debris near the ground, flying debris, or any threatening weather approaching, take cover immediately," the alert states.
Anyone on the water is advised to be prepared for severe weather and ready to return to shore and take shelter as soon as possible. "Tornado watches are issued when conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes," Environment Canada said.
By the numbers
When was the tornado watch downgraded from a red warning?
The tornado watch was downgraded from a red warning to orange level at approximately 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
How far is Warner from Calgary?
Warner, where Environment Canada tracked a severe thunderstorm, is approximately 280 kilometres southeast of Calgary.
