Special Weather Statement issued with possibility of funnel clouds

Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for all of southwestern Manitoba, as far east as the Pilot Mound and Manitou regions due funnel cloud potential Monday afternoon.

"An unstable air mass may lead to the development of isolated funnel clouds," noted the 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 this rotation could intensify and become a weak landspout tornado.

If conditions become more favourable for the development of landspout tornadoes, watches and warnings will be issued by Environment Canada.

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.

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.