Rare funnel cloud spotted during thunderstorm in southern India

INDIA: Residents of Thoothukudi in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu witnessed an unusual weather event after a funnel-shaped cloud formation appeared during a thunderstorm.

Videos shared widely on social media showed a distinct column extending downward from a storm cloud, prompting speculation that a tornado had touched down in the area.

The sight attracted attention because tornadoes are rarely reported in Tamil Nadu, making such formations highly unusual for the region.

Experts differ on classification

Some weather observers described the phenomenon as a tornado or a possible landspout, a weaker type of tornado that develops from rotation near the ground rather than from large rotating storm systems.

Forecasters noted that conditions at the time included abundant atmospheric moisture, strong thunderstorm updrafts and localised rotation — ingredients commonly associated with funnel cloud formation.

However, India's meteorological authorities stopped short of classifying the event as a tornado.

Meteorological department disputes tornado claims

According to the regional meteorological department, thunderstorms with strong updrafts developed over the area due to an east-west trough located about 3.1 kilometres above sea level across southern Tamil Nadu.

Officials said the atmospheric conditions generated localised strong winds, dust lifting and vigorous upward air movement near the Thoothukudi airport area.

The department's regional forecasting centre said the observed feature was more likely a localised convective vortex, dust whirl or transient funnel cloud rather than a confirmed tornado.

Damage reported in affected areas

The weather phenomenon reportedly caused damage in several areas near Thoothukudi, particularly around Vagaikulam and Mudivaithanendal villages, located about 20 kilometres from the city along the Thoothukudi–Tirunelveli highway.

Residents said strong winds uprooted trees, snapped electricity poles, tore away roof sheets and damaged household belongings across a residential area of around 200 homes.

Local accounts also described debris, including roofing materials and other objects, being lifted into the air and scattered over considerable distances.

Some debris was reportedly left hanging from overhead power lines after the storm passed.

A private theme park near the Vagaikulam toll plaza also sustained significant damage, while glass panels, computer systems and other equipment at the toll collection centre were affected.

Authorities temporarily allowed vehicles to pass through the plaza without collecting toll fees while repairs and assessments were carried out.

Injuries and losses reported

Residents estimated losses running into several crores of rupees.

Preliminary local assessments suggested damage worth about Rs 2 crore (approximately US$230,000) in the affected residential area alone.

Combined losses at the theme park and toll plaza were estimated at between Rs 5 crore and Rs 6 crore (approximately US$580,000 to US$700,000).

Two people reportedly sustained minor injuries, although no fatalities were reported.

Tornadoes uncommon in Tamil Nadu

Tornadoes are relatively rare in India and occur most frequently in eastern and northeastern states such as West Bengal and Odisha.

Weather experts noted that even if the Thoothukudi event was not technically a tornado, the appearance of such a well-defined funnel cloud remains unusual for Tamil Nadu.