If a funnel cloud is reported near you, act as you would for a tornado warning: move to shelter, because tornadoes can also occur without a visible funnel.
Tornado
A tornado, by definition, is on the ground: a damaging circulation at the surface, whether or not the funnel reaches the ground visibly.
Funnel cloud
A true funnel cloud rotates, has no ground contact or debris and is not doing damage. A low-hanging cloud with no rotation is not a funnel cloud. Some funnels are high-based and may never reach the surface.
Why it still matters
Tornadoes can occur without a funnel, and what looks like only a funnel cloud may be doing damage that cannot be seen from a distance. Because a funnel might quickly become a tornado, the SPC says it should be reported by storm spotters.
What to do
Follow official alerts, move to shelter if a warning is issued for your location, and see our tornado safety guide for where to go.
Check your own location
See current official alerts and the impact for your ZIP code.
Common questions
What is the difference between a funnel cloud and a tornado?
A tornado has a damaging circulation at the surface. A true funnel cloud rotates but has no ground contact or debris and is not doing damage.
Are funnel clouds dangerous?
They can be. A funnel cloud might quickly become a tornado, and what looks like only a funnel may be doing damage that cannot be seen from a distance. The SPC says to remember rotation and have spotters report it.
Sources
Reviewed by the Storm Incoming editorial team on October 27, 2026. Follow local emergency officials if their instructions differ.