Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for conditions favourable for the development of funnel clouds today in portions of southwestern Saskatchewan which include Lloydminster, the Battlefords, Biggar, Kindersley, Outlook, Leader, Watrous and Saskatoon and their surrounding areas throughout this afternoon and early evening.

These types of funnel clouds are generated by weak rotation under rapidly growing clouds or weak thunderstorms. This weak rotation is normally not a danger near the ground. However, there is a chance that this rotation could intensify and become a weak landspout tornado.

If conditions become more favourable for the development of landspout tornadoes, watches and warnings will be issued by Environment Canada.

Landspout tornadoes do not usually cause significant damage but can still be dangerous. They can be strong enough to topple trees, damage roofs or toss debris short distances.

Treat any funnel cloud sighting seriously. Should a funnel cloud develop nearby, prepare to take shelter. These funnel clouds usually appear with little or no warning.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.