Funnel clouds possible in Medicine Hat area

Funnel clouds are possible in the Medicine Hat area, with conditions favourable for their development under rapidly growing clouds and weak thunderstorms.

Environment Canada said in a statement that the atmosphere is supporting weak rotation that can form funnel clouds beneath developing storm cells.

While the rotation is not usually dangerous near the ground, there is a risk it could briefly tighten and produce a weak landspout tornado.

These tornadoes are short-lived and not associated with major storm systems, but can be strong enough to topple trees, damage roofs or throw debris short distances.