The city of Prince George, B.C., was on tornado watch for a few hours on Friday, according to Environment Canada. On Friday afternoon, yellow warnings were issued for severe thunderstorms and a tornado. Environment Canada says the thunderstorm may come with “loonie to ping pong ball size hail and heavy rain.” The severe thunderstorm warning covers several smaller nearby towns as well, but Prince George is the only city forecasted to be in a potential tornado’s path. “Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms which may produce tornadoes. Strong winds, large hail and heavy rain are also possible,” the update reads. “Significant damage or destruction to infrastructure, homes and the natural environment is possible.” The alert said this forecast was one Environment Canada was highly confident in, and the possible tornado was expected to have a “moderate” impact. Environment Canada asked anyone in the area to take cover inside strong buildings. It says the best place to shelter indoors is in a basement, stairwell, or interior closet. The alert said free-standing shelters, mobile homes, vehicles, tents, and trailers should be left and avoided. “Be prepared for severe weather. If you hear a roaring sound or see a funnel cloud, swirling debris near the ground, flying debris, or any threatening weather approaching, take cover immediately,” the update reads. Environment Canada explains that it issues tornado watches when it sees the potential “for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes.” The tornado watch ended about three hours after it was issued.
