Spencer, IA (northwestiowanow.com) – We’ve received several reports of cold air funnel clouds in the area this week. The atmospheric conditions have been favorable for the development of showers and weak funnels.

Cold air funnel clouds typically form when instability in the atmosphere leads to rising air through showers or weak thunderstorms. This upward motion creates rotation aloft due to a weak frontal boundary. As the updraft stretches, a funnel cloud can form.

It’s important to note that these types of funnels are generally weak and do not reach the ground. The National Weather Service typically does not issue tornado warnings for cold air funnels, as they are usually short-lived, rarely cause damage, and are difficult to detect on radar.

However, if a funnel were to touch the ground, it could produce winds up to 50 MPH and result in minor damage.

If you’ve seen a funnel cloud or captured photos or video, please contact our office at 712-262-1240 or email them to weather@spencerradiogroup.com.