Tornado-like formation spotted over Woodlands was likely a funnel cloud, says MSS
A tornado-like formation was spotted over Woodlands on Wednesday (30 Sept), with netizens sharing videos and reports of what they described to be a “tornado”.
Source: @yy0._.jlr on TikTok
However, the formation was likely a funnel cloud, according to the Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS).
MSS said the formation observed around Woodlands that afternoon was associated with cumulonimbus clouds that brought intense thundery showers over northern and western Singapore.
A funnel cloud that reaches the ground is known as a landspout.
Netizens spot tornado-like formation in Woodlands
A netizen posted a TikTok video on Wednesday evening claiming that an “intense landspout” had been reported in the Woodlands area.
“You are able to see trees getting shredded,” the netizen wrote.
Source: @sgmymt on TikTok
Other netizens also reported seeing what they described as a “tornado” in Woodlands that day.
One sighting listed the location as Woodlands Avenue 12.
The formations appeared to show a narrow, rotating column extending downwards from the clouds.
Source: Fwee Thin Chin on Facebook
MSS says formation was likely a funnel cloud
MSS told MS News that cumulonimbus clouds brought intense thundery showers over northern and western parts of Singapore on the afternoon of 30 Sept.
“The clouds with a protrusion at their base, observed around Woodlands on 30 Sept 2026, were likely funnel clouds,” MSS said.
Source: National Environment Agency (NEA) on Facebook
A funnel cloud forms beneath a cumulonimbus cloud as moist air feeds into an intensifying storm.
This produces a rotating column of winds beneath the cloud.
When a funnel cloud reaches the ground, it is known as a landspout. If it reaches the sea instead, it is known as a waterspout.
Landspouts typically last several minutes
According to MSS, landspouts and waterspouts typically last several minutes.
They dissipate once the thunderstorm weakens.
Source: Nayeem Islam Khan on Facebook
Landspouts and waterspouts are generally weaker than tornadoes. However, they do still pose some risks.
Waterspouts may be dangerous to small boats and those doing water activities.
Meanwhile, people and objects in the path of a landspout may be at risk.
In the case where you spot either of these phenomena, quickly move away and look for a safe, sheltered location.
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Featured image adapted from Walter Oh on Facebook, @sgmymt on TikTok and Fwee Thin Chin on Facebook.
