There’s a possibility of funnel clouds briefly appearing over the Windsor-Essex region on Thursday afternoon, according to a weather advisory from Environment Canada.
Chances of the weather phenomenon developing have increased due to an unseasonably cool and unstable air mass, say government meteorologists.
The advisory was issued just before noon for Windsor, Leamington, Essex County, and Chatham-Kent.
Scattered thunderstorms have been forecasted for Thursday afternoon and early evening across Southern Ontario.
Some of these storms will include lightning, hail, and 70 km/h winds.
The specific forecast for Windsor-Essex predicts a 40 per cent chance of showers and westerly winds of 20 km/h.
Funnel clouds are the result of weak rotation of air under rapidly growing clouds. These clouds are normally not a danger to the ground. However, the presence of funnel clouds indicates a chance for more intense rotation — resulting in a landspout tornado.
Environment Canada advises that any funnel cloud sighting should be treated seriously. If you see one, prepare to take shelter.
