Funnel cloud advisory issued for parts of West Central Saskatchewan
Kindersley, Sask. – June 23, 2025 (CP)
Residents across West Central Saskatchewan are being advised to remain weather-aware Monday, as Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a special weather statement warning of conditions favourable for the development of funnel clouds.
The advisory, issued late Monday morning, notes that portions of southwestern Saskatchewan may see weak funnel clouds form during the afternoon and early evening hours. These funnels are typically generated by weak rotation beneath rapidly growing clouds or isolated thunderstorms and are generally not dangerous near the ground. However, forecasters caution that some could intensify into short-lived landspout tornadoes.
"Landspout tornadoes do not usually cause significant damage but can still be dangerous," the agency said. "They can be strong enough to topple trees, damage roofs or toss debris short distances."
The alert comes as a slow-moving upper low, currently centred over central Alberta, continues to drift into Saskatchewan. The system is expected to spark scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms across the western half of the province throughout the day.
While Monday’s storms are not expected to be severe, forecasters say the setup is conducive to cold-core funnel clouds — typically associated with cooler, less unstable air masses. Though they rarely make ground contact, a similar weather pattern produced a confirmed landspout tornado over open country near Cabri over the weekend. No damage was reported.
Environment Canada says these weak tornadoes often form without the presence of organized storm cells, making them difficult to detect on radar.
“If you see one forming, take shelter indoors,” the agency advised. “Though brief and weak, they can still cause minor damage, especially to outbuildings, trees or unsecured objects.”
Residents are encouraged to monitor weather alerts and report funnel clouds or other severe weather via email at SKstorm@ec.gc.ca, by phone at 1-800-239-0484, or by using #SKStorm on social media.