Funnel clouds prompt tornado risk from Oshawa to Pickering

The entire south end Region of Durham is under a weather warning due to the formation of funnel clouds which could evolve into tornados.

Environment Canada warned of the risks for the afternoon and evening of June 14.

“These types of funnel clouds are generated by weak rotation under rapidly growing clouds or weak thunderstorms,” Environment Canada explained, “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.”

Such tornados are usually rather weak, but could still topple trees, damage roofs or toss debris 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,” Environment Canada warned.

While the warning is in place from Clarington to Pickering, it isn’t only Durham affected. The warning stretches all across the Golden Horseshoe including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton and Niagara Region.