A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been in effect for the Red River Valley and Southeastern Manitoba since just before noon Tuesday, with storms potentially developing late in the afternoon or early evening.

Natalie Hasell from Environment Canada explained what we could expect from any potential severe thunderstorms.

"Right now the forecast for severe thunderstorms includes; torrential downpours, large hail, and strong straight-line winds. Looking at the wind profile, it wouldn't surprise me if we had some funnel clouds, or even a tornado reported today."

Hasell says, though rare, tornados are extremely dangerous and during a severe thunderstorm people should find shelter immediately, instead of trying to get pictures. It's also suggested you have an emergency kit in the house or car, in case there's a power outage, someone is hurt, or you're stranded on the road.

Storms are common this time of year, and peak storm season is from July to August. Severe storms can happen during this time, and are formed through four factors. Moisture; an unstable atmosphere; a trigger usually caused by a cold front, everyday heating, and the topography; and wind sheer or the height of the clouds.

Though in the middle of storm season, Hasell explained things are looking up weather wise in the next couple weeks.

"I expect we can see temperatures warm up in Southern Manitoba. Certainly the end of June was really quite cool, unusually so, and I think we'll see closer to typical patterns of day-time and night-time temperatures."

With weather expected to warm up, it's important to use caution to protect yourself, and others, from heat illness during the hotter days of summer.