Special Weather Statement issued for sections of eastern Alberta

Environment & Climate Change Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for sections of eastern Alberta and western Saskatchewan warning of favourable conditions for the development of funnel clouds Wednesday afternoon.

According to the ECCC statement, “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.”

It also cautions that landspout tornadoes do not usually cause significant damage but can still be dangerous, possibly toppling trees, damaging roofs or tossing debris for short distances.

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