Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for several areas in southwestern Manitoba, warning that conditions are favourable for the development of funnel clouds on Monday afternoon. The advisory, issued Monday afternoon, covers a wide region including Brandon, Neepawa, Carberry, Virden, Souris, Melita, Boissevain, Killarney, Pilot Mound, Minnedosa and Riding Mountain National Park. According to the federal agency, an unstable air mass over the region may lead to the formation of isolated funnel clouds throughout the afternoon and evening. “These types of funnel clouds are generated by weak rotation under rapidly growing clouds or weak thunderstorms,” Environment Canada said. “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.” Landspout tornadoes are typically not as destructive as their supercell counterparts but can still pose a threat, with the potential to topple trees, damage roofs or throw debris short distances. Environment Canada urges residents to treat any funnel cloud sightings seriously and to be prepared to take shelter if one develops nearby. These weather events can form quickly and with little warning. The advisory remains in effect until this evening. The public is encouraged to stay alert for updates and to report severe weather by emailing MBstorm@ec.gc.ca, calling 1-800-239-0484, or using the hashtag #MBStorm on social media.