Tornado watch issued for Drumheller, Three Hills | DrumhellerMail

Tornado watch issued for Drumheller, Three Hills

Environment Canada issued a tornado watch shortly before 1 p.m. today, saying conditions are favourable for the development of funnel clouds or weak tornadoes in the Drumheller and Three Hills areas this afternoon and early evening.

"These types of funnel clouds form out of large cumulus clouds or very weak thunderstorms and normally do not have the energy to reach the ground," a statement on their website said. "However one or two of these funnels may briefly touch down and can become destructive over a very small area."

Environment Canada advises people to treat all funnel clouds and tornadoes seriously and avoid them when possible. "Should one develop overhead take shelter until it dissipates. Remember these funnel clouds will normally appear with little or no warning."

Environment Canada continues to monitor the situation closely.

Should you spot a funnel cloud or tornado, you can call 1-800-239-0484 to report the sighting.

If you've snapped any pictures of funnel clouds in the area, submit them to news@drumhellermail.com