Widespread tornado watch issued in southern Sask.

Environment Canada issued a tornado warning for the Assiniboia, Gravelbourg ad Mossbank area shortly before 5 p.m. Sunday afternoon.

Less than half an hour later, the warning was lifted, but a widespread watch across multiple areas replaced it.

Regina, Estevan, Moose Jaw, Fort Qu’appelle and Pilot Butte are all part of the tornado watch.

A storm system in south central Saskatchewan has the potential to produce a tornado, Environment Canada said. Damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall are also possible.

Doppler radar indicates rotation on a thunderstorm between Gravelbourg and Mossbank. Storm spotters had reported a tornado southwest of Mossbank earlier in the afternoon.

“This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches. If you hear a roaring sound or see a funnel cloud, swirling debris near the ground, flying debris, or any threatening weather approaching, take shelter immediately,” the weather warning said.

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