Rare funnel clouds spotted amid week of storms and flooding

Rare funnel clouds have been spotted after days of thunderstorms across the country.

The cone-shaped formations, also called tubas, are formed when a rotating column of wind sucks in droplets from the bases of storm clouds, according to the Met Office.

It’s the same process that creates tornadoes, but funnel clouds only become a tornado when they reach Earth, or become known as gargoyles when they reach a body of water.

Matthew Whitelocks, 46, a part-time firefighter with Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, posted pictures and a video Twitter after seeing a funnel cloud over his home for the first time GranthamLincolnshire.

He told the PA news agency: “I have seen clouds rotate as if trying to become funnel clouds but have not actually formed into one.

“It was fascinating to watch the funnel expand and contract towards the bottom.

“There was no sound and the air was surprisingly calm.”

Mr Whitelocks runs a Twitter page called Skys of the UK with his 11-year-old son Kaelan.

“Kaelan is fascinated by all types of weather and has been waiting and hoping to see a funnel cloud or tornado for as long as I can remember,” added Mr Whitelocks.

“I guess I passed on my enthusiasm for the weather.

“I grew up on a farm in the same area and obviously the weather was part of everyday life.”

Forming mostly from cumulonimbus clouds, funnel clouds are usually associated with heavy rain, hail, thunder and lightning, according to the Met Office.

The sightings came after heavy rain on Wednesday caused flash flooding in some areas and a serious incident was reported in Somerset.