Indianapolis, Indiana – Unusual spinning funnel clouds could appear over Central Indiana today as cold-core low pressure triggers rare weather activity across more than 40 counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, these cold air funnels are not tied to severe thunderstorms and rarely reach the ground. However, if one does touch down, only minor damage is expected. The best chance for sightings will occur during daylight hours Saturday as scattered showers and weak thunderstorms move through the region.
These funnels differ significantly from tornadoes. They’re narrow, short-lived, and typically descend just a few hundred feet below their parent clouds. Sightings are most likely near Lafayette, Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Muncie, where cloud cover and upper-level instability are most favorable. No tornado warnings are currently in effect.
Drivers are encouraged to remain alert, especially during brief heavy showers, and report any funnel cloud sightings to local law enforcement or the NWS. Residents should avoid panicking, as these phenomena are typically harmless unless they reach the surface.
The chance for funnel cloud development will taper off by Saturday evening as the system weakens and shifts east. The National Weather Service will issue warnings if any funnel makes contact with the ground.
