Funnel clouds could turn into tornadoes in Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton and Halton

Published June 14, 2023 at 12:13 pm

A funnel cloud advisory has been issued for those living in Mississauga, Hamilton, Brampton and Halton.

Environment Canada says current weather conditions favour the development of funnel clouds this afternoon and early evening.

“Treat any funnel cloud sighting seriously,” the advisory warns. “Should a funnel cloud develop nearby, prepare to take shelter. These funnel clouds usually appear with little or no warning.”

While funnel clouds do not generally pose a ground threat, the advisory comes with a warning that an increase in the rotation of the cloud could become a weak landspout tornado.

Funnel clouds are generated by a weak rotation under rapidly growing clouds or weak thunderstorms. If they do turn into landspout tornadoes, they do not usually cause significant damage but can still be dangerous, according to Environment Canada. However, they can be strong enough to topple trees, damage roofs or toss debris short distances.

 

INsauga's Editorial Standards and Policies