Funnel cloud alert issued for Burlington and Oakville

A funnel cloud advisory has been issued for those living in Burlington and Oakville.

Environment Canada says current weather conditions favour the development of funnel clouds and the conditions will remain throughout the day.

“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.