Why it's trending
The tornado warning for an area near Edmonton triggered public concern and media coverage, especially as severe storms were forecasted for the region with risks of very large hail and tornadoes. The warning's cancellation and replacement with a thunderstorm warning also drew attention.
Environment Canada issued a tornado warning for parts of Yellowhead County, west of Edmonton, on Saturday afternoon. The warning was later cancelled and replaced with a severe thunderstorm warning as the storm moved east, according to CBC News.
The Weather Network had earlier forecasted a renewed round of severe thunderstorms over Alberta on Saturday, with the risk of very large hail and one or two tornadoes. The storm development was expected in the mid-afternoon, with the main hazards being golf-ball-sized hail and damaging wind gusts.
As of 7:43 p.m. MT, the storm was located just west of Entwistle and tracking east at 45 km/h, according to Environment Canada. The tornado warning was cancelled at the same time, as tornadoes were no longer expected. However, the severe thunderstorm warning remained, warning of hail bigger than a baseball and damaging winds.
Residents were advised to take immediate cover if threatening weather approaches. Wildfire smoke was noted as a wildcard that could moderate storm severity. The alert system highlights the increasing frequency of tornado warnings, even if actual tornadoes are not always confirmed.
Timeline
- Tornado warning issued
Environment Canada issued a tornado warning for parts of Yellowhead County, west of Edmonton, due to a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado.
- Tornado warning cancelled
The tornado warning was cancelled as tornadoes were no longer expected. A severe thunderstorm warning remained in effect for the same area, with the storm near Entwistle moving east at 45 km/h.
Questions people ask
What is a tornado warning?
A tornado warning is issued by Environment Canada when a tornado is imminent or occurring, based on radar or visual confirmation. It requires immediate action to take cover.
Where was the tornado warning issued?
The warning was issued for parts of Yellowhead County, Alberta, which is west of Edmonton.
Was there an actual tornado?
According to Environment Canada, the tornado warning was cancelled because tornadoes were no longer expected. There is no confirmed report of a tornado touching down.
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