PIERRE, S.D.(KCCR)- The National Weather Service in Aberdeen is shedding some light on a funnel cloud that appeared over eastern Hughes County Sunday. Monday afternoon, photos posted on social media by a Sioux Falls TV station emerged that showed the funnel making contact with the ground, thus confirming a tornado. Meteorologist Renee Wise says there is a difference.
Audio PlayerWise says photos of funnels are not enough to confirm a tornado.
Audio PlayerWise says the conditions Sunday to form the funnel are not common.
Audio PlayerWhat happened Sunday shows how important storm spotters and “ground truth” is for reporting weather.
Audio PlayerHughes/Stanley County Emergency Management independently sounded outdoor warning sirens at the West Bend Recreation Area upon confirming a funnel was in the area Sunday afternoon.