“Severe Thunderstorm & Tornado Warning Issued in Southern Saskatchewan:
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is closely monitoring a severe thunderstorm that has the potential to produce a tornado south of Regina. The alert was issued at 6:40 p.m. on Sunday for the RM of Baildon, including the community of Briercrest, around 77 kilometres southwest of Regina.
Impending Danger and Instructions to Residents:
The warning highlighted the presence of a severe thunderstorm near Crestwynd, moving east at 50 km/h, with potential hazards including golf ball size hail and 110 km/h winds. Areas affected by the warning encompass Dunkirk, Crestwynd, Baildon No. 131, Leakville, Bayard, Briercrest, and Claybank. Residents were advised to immediately seek shelter upon the approach of severe weather.
Broader Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Saskatchewan:
ECCC broadened its severe thunderstorm watch to cover significant portions of central and southern Saskatchewan, including the capital city. The watch, issued earlier in the afternoon, cautioned about the development of hazardous thunderstorms capable of causing damaging wind gusts, hail, and heavy rainfall. As a low-pressure system collides with an unstable air mass and moves eastward, an outbreak of severe thunderstorms is possible from Sunday afternoon into the evening.
Various Regions Under Warning:
The watch area spans from Cold Lake in the north to Estevan in the southeast, impacting cities like Saskatoon, North Battleford, Swift Current, Moose Jaw, Weyburn, Estevan, and Regina. Several regions, including Morse, Elbow, Gravelbourg, Caronport, and Davidson, were under severe thunderstorm warnings with risks of high wind speeds, hail, and potential tornadoes.
Precautionary Measures and Potential Risks:
ECCC urged residents to stay vigilant against flash floods, large hail, and strong wind gusts, emphasizing the possible occurrence of tornadoes during severe thunderstorms. Continuous updates on weather alerts can be found on ECCC’s official channels.
In times of severe weather conditions, it is crucial for individuals to heed warnings, stay informed, and prioritize safety above all. The unpredictability of natural phenomena serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and caution.”
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