NOAA Issues Statement as Tropical Funnel Cloud Spotted in South Louisiana

As Tropical Storm Helene has now officially formed, Louisiana continues to keep an eye on the Gulf.

Although Helene is still expected to make landfall in the Florida, Georgia, Alabama area of the U.S., NOAA has just issued a "Special Weather Statement" for Acadiana as a tropical funnel cloud has been spotted in lower Iberia Parish.

Are Tropical Funnel Clouds Dangerous?

Tropical funnel clouds are generally not as dangerous as tornadoes, but they can still pose a risk.

These funnel clouds form in warm, humid tropical air masses and are usually short-lived, rarely touching the ground. When they do, they may cause minor damage.

However, if a tropical funnel cloud reaches the ground, it becomes a weak tornado or waterspout, which can cause localized damage, particularly to structures, vehicles, or people caught outdoors.

Even though they're typically weaker than traditional tornadoes, it's wise to stay cautious and monitor local weather advisories when tropical funnel clouds are observed.

Because of this, NOAA has issued a special weather statement for Acadiana as a tropical funnel cloud has been spotted in the vicinity of Marsh Island in Iberia Parish.

Although the above graphic is from earlier this year, it contains some important information about tropical funnel clouds.

Here is today's statement from NOAA -

...TROPICAL FUNNEL CLOUD SIGHTED...

At 1030...The National Weather Service has received a
report of a funnel cloud in the vicinity of South Marsh Island.

A very moist and unstable tropical airmass is in place across
the area. Meanwhile...the vertical wind profile over the area
is light and variable.

These conditions are favorable for the development of tropical funnel clouds...especially where rain cooled boundaries...known as outflow boundaries...and the seabreeze collide.

If the tropical funnel cloud intensifies and reaches the ground, a tornado warning will be issued for the appropriate Parishes in Acadiana.