Residents in the Grande Prairie region are being advised to keep an eye on the sky after Environment Canada issued a funnel cloud advisory Thursday afternoon.
According to the weather agency, atmospheric conditions were favourable for the development of funnel clouds in the Grande Prairie and Wembley areas as of 5:39 p.m. MDT on August 13.
The conditions were expected to persist until early Thursday evening.
Environment Canada said the funnel clouds could develop beneath rapidly growing clouds or weak thunderstorms.
While the weak rotation associated with these clouds is usually not dangerous at ground level, forecasters warned there is a possibility the rotation could strengthen into a weak landspout tornado.
Landspout tornadoes typically do not cause significant damage, but they can still pose a threat to people and property.
Environment Canada said they may be strong enough to topple trees, damage roofs and toss debris short distances.
Officials are urging residents to take any funnel cloud sighting seriously and be prepared to seek shelter if one develops nearby, noting that these weather events can form with little or no warning.
If conditions become more favourable for the development of landspout tornadoes, additional watches or warnings may be issued.
Environment Canada is encouraging the public to continue monitoring weather alerts and forecasts throughout the evening.
Severe weather reports can be submitted to Environment Canada by email, by phone, or through social media using the hashtag #ABStorm.