Tornado warning issued, and quickly cancelled, over Alhambra

A Tornado warning was issued and quickly cancelled after a severe thunderstorm moved over Alhambra mid-Wednesday morning in the midst of a storm system that forecasters warned could potentially bring particularly destructive winds.

The National Weather Service at 10:20 p.m. warned that a thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado had moved into the area, potentially impacting not only Alhambra but also portions of Pasadena, Monterey Park, San Gabriel, El Monte and Temple City.

Forecasters about ten minutes later cancelled the tornado threat warning, but cautioned that damaging winds in the area remain likely and a “severe thunderstorm warning” was still in effect.

Residents were warned that if a tornado does break out, they should immediately take cover to avoid flying debris.

In preparation for the gusty and wet holiday storm, meteorologists noted that there was a “very low chance” of a tornado forming in parts of Los Angeles County, though they acknowledged it wasn’t their primary concern. Forecasters on Tuesday estimated the probability of a tornado at 2 percent through Thursday.

If they do develop, a tornado in the area would almost certainly be small and short lived, though they could still impact weaker structures, like trailers, or take down some trees.