Environment Canada has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for our region. 

"Conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, damaging hail and torrential rain." stated Environment and Climate Change Canada.

The risk of the severe thunderstorms happening will be this afternoon and early evening. 

"Very large hail can damage property, break windows, dent vehicles and cause serious injury. Very strong wind gusts can damage buildings, down trees and blow large vehicles off the road."

The government agency reminds residents that severe thunderstorms do have the capabilities of producing tornadoes, and heavy downpours can cause flash flooding. 

The severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Airdrie, Cochrane, Olds and Sundre.