Funnel clouds can form in environments with thunderstorms and rotating columns of air. It is a cone or funnel-shaped condensation cloud that extends from a storm without reaching the surface.
“These types of funnel clouds are generated by weak rotation under rapidly growing clouds or weak thunderstorms. This weak rotation is normally not a danger near the ground. However, there is a chance that this rotation could intensify and become a weak landspout tornado,” warned Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) on Sunday.
Typically, funnel clouds alone are not dangerous. However, if they are able to extend to the surface, they would become a tornado. In that case, it could cause damage.
Unlike their supercell cousins, landspout tornadoes don’t usually cause major damage but can still be dangerous. They can be potent enough to topple trees, damage roofs or toss debris short distances.
Stay tuned to The Weather Network for the latest forecast updates for Alberta.
