‘Funnel clouds’: Weather statement issued for Calgary for Sunday afternoon and evening

Calgary skyline (file)

A special weather statement was issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) Sunday.

At 11:47 a.m., ECCC posted the statement, advising that, “Conditions are favourable for the development of funnel clouds early this afternoon through this evening.

“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,” the statement added.

“Landspout tornadoes do not usually cause significant damage but can still be dangerous. They can be strong enough to topple trees, damage roofs or toss debris short distances.”

There is a 60 per cent chance of showers with the risk of a thunderstorm for Sunday afternoon and evening, with north winds gusting up to 40 km/h and a high of 14 degrees.