Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement warning of favourable conditions for funnel clouds across the Lakeland region this afternoon.
“These types of funnel clouds are generated by weak rotation under rapidly growing clouds or weak thunderstorms,” reads the warning. “This weak rotation is normally not a danger near the ground. However, there is a chance that this rotation could intensify and become a weak landspout tornado.”
Residents are urged to take any funnel cloud sightings seriously. If one forms, Environment Canada recommends taking shelter immediately.
The affected ares include, County of St. Paul near Ashmont, St. Vincent, St. Lina, Elk Point, St. Edouard, Lindbergh, Frog Lake, St. Paul and Lafond. Improvement District 349 including Cold Lake Air Weapons Range. Lac La Biche County near Frog Lake, Heart Lake, Lac La Biche, Square Lake, Lakeland Provincial Park and Recreation Area, Plamondon, Hylo and Avenir. M.D. of Bonnyville near Beaverdam, Bonnyville, Ardmore, Kehewin, Cold Lake, Fishing Lake Settlement, Glendon Moose Lake, La Corey, Wolf Lake, and Truman. Smokey Lake County near Buffalo Lake, Kikino Settlement, Vilna, Saddle Lake, and Whitefish Lake.
