Parts of southeastern Saskatchewan are currently under a tornado watch due to an approaching storm system that is forecasted to bring lightning and large hail. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued an orange-level tornado watch just before 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, with conditions expected to persist into the evening.
The affected areas include Coronach, Indian Head, Yorkton, Melville, Esterhazy, and Carnduff, along with the surrounding rural municipalities. The storm system has the potential to produce hailstones measuring up to six cm in diameter and wind gusts reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h, as stated in the ECCC alert. Additionally, some regions may experience rainfall exceeding 50 mm.
ECCC has warned that multiple thunderstorms are likely to develop rapidly along a warm front over southeastern Saskatchewan and southwestern Manitoba later in the day. The alert cautions about the possibility of significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and the natural environment.
In the event that the tornado watch escalates to a warning, ECCC advises individuals to seek shelter indoors, away from walls and windows. If a funnel cloud or flying debris is spotted, immediate cover should be taken.