Environment Canada has confirmed Alberta's first tornado of the year touched down near Gleichen, Alberta at about 7:15 p.m. on Friday night.

The weather agency says two funnel clouds were seen about 15 kilometres west-northwest of Gleichen and that one of them briefly touched down.

They say the weather event is considered a landspout tornado and that this type does not usually cause significant damage but can still be dangerous.

The tornados can be strong enough to pull out trees, damage structures and whip debris around.

There were no reports of damage or injuries.