Environment Canada added Bragg Creek and Tsuu'tina First Nation to the thunderstorm watch shortly before 3:30 p.m. July 31. At 10:30 a.m. that morning, a watch was issued for Airdrie, Crossfield, Bottrel, Madden and Cochrane.
"Conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, damaging hail and heavy rain," the alert stated. "Thunderstorms are expected to continue to develop this afternoon and persist into this evening."
Severe thunderstorm watches are issued, according to Environment Canada, 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.
"Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches," the alert stated. "Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors."
More details on the alert are available here.
