Indianapolis, Ind. – Unusual funnel-shaped clouds may develop over Central Indiana on Saturday, but residents shouldn’t expect a tornado outbreak. These formations, known as cold air funnels, are expected to form under non-severe weather conditions, especially during the afternoon hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, the risk stems from a large-scale cold-core low moving across the state. Showers and weak thunderstorms could trigger narrow, short-lived funnel clouds in counties including Marion, Tippecanoe, Monroe, and Shelby. Unlike tornadoes, cold air funnels rarely reach the ground—and when they do, they typically cause only minor damage.
Communities such as Bloomington, Muncie, Lafayette, and Terre Haute may observe these smooth, spinning columns extending a few hundred feet from the base of clouds. While dramatic in appearance, these funnels are generally harmless unless contact with the surface occurs.
No severe thunderstorm activity is expected Saturday. Residents are advised to stay weather-aware and report any funnel cloud sightings. The NWS will issue warnings only if funnels make ground contact.
Weather conditions should stabilize by Sunday, but updates will continue if additional funnels are spotted.
