A dramatic scene unfolded as a menacing twister took shape over a tranquil British village.
The swirling storm clouds were spotted above Porthpean, near St Austell in Cornwall, creating a striking weather event known as ‘funnel clouds’.
One local resident was seen dashing away after noticing the phenomenon on Monday, July 15.
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Funnel clouds are cone-shaped formations that dangle from a larger cloud, developing in a manner similar to tornadoes, according to Need To Know.
A representative from Kernow Weather Team explained, “A funnel cloud is a cone-shaped cloud extending from the base of a cloud toward the ground without actually touching the surface.
In Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, they often resemble thin ropes hanging from the clouds above.
However, in regions like tornado alley in the USA, funnel clouds can be much thicker and more intense.”
The spokesperson further detailed the formation process, stating, “Funnel clouds are created similarly to tornadoes, building around an area of intensely low pressure and typically associated with cumulonimbus thunderclouds.
These clouds are almost always the source from which funnel clouds form, often bringing heavy rain, hail, thunder, and lightning.”
“If a funnel cloud does reach the ground and become a tornado, it can generate very strong winds in the immediate vicinity, potentially causing severe damage,” the spokesman added.
