Tornado watch issued for Saskatoon, with potential for large hail and ...

A tornado watch was issued for Saskatoon on Sunday afternoon, with city facilities preparing to close on short notice in the event of an outbreak of severe thunderstorms.

Just after 1 p.m. Environment Canada issued the alert. The federal weather service said a low pressure system was colliding with an unstable air mass, creating conditions for intense storms ranging from large hail, very strong gusting wind, torrential downpours and tornadoes.

“This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation,” Environment Canada said in its alert.

“Storms will initiate by mid-late afternoon and track east-northeast. The tornado threat will gradually diminish after sunset and as the storms track into eastern Saskatchewan and into Manitoba tonight.”

In a news release Sunday afternoon, the City of Saskatoon said police, the fire department and city electrical workers were on standby monitoring conditions to deal with potential damage to infrastructure and localized flooding.

City facilities like the landfill, the Forestry Farm and Zoo, and civic centres have prepared to close if severe weather does break out, and transit service could also be affected.

“The city is advising residents to take immediate steps to ensure their safety and to stay informed,” the news release said.

In the event of a tornado, Environment Canada advises people to “take cover immediately.”

“Go indoors to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows, such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet. Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can,” Environment Canada says.

“As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris.”

The federal weather service advises Saskatoon residents to keep an eye on the forecast. According to a statement from Warman Fire and Rescue, the highest risk for tornado formation is between 3 - 6 p.m.