Funnel clouds, landspouts possible as storms move through Minnesota

Widespread severe weather is not expected, but some storms could get some clouds dancing Wednesday afternoon in parts of Minnesota.

According to the National Weather Service, funnel clouds and brief spin-up landspouts could occur in western Minnesota. The weather service advises anyone who spots a funnel cloud to "seek shelter on the lowest floor of a sturdy structure."

Counties under a special weather statement include Chippewa, Douglas, Kandiyohi, Lac Qui Parle, Pope, Redwood, Renville, Stevens, Swift and Yellow Medicine.

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Cities included in the advisory area include Alexandria, Benson, Glenwood, Granite Falls, Madison, Montevideo, Morris, Olivia, Redwood Falls and Willmar.

"One or two funnel clouds or weak landspouts are possible this afternoon as rain showers and a possible thunderstorm move through the area," the National Weather Service says. "Relay any reports to local law enforcement or the National Weather Service when safe to do so."

Like tornadoes, landspouts occur over land but are smaller and weaker than tornadoes. Still, they can cause strong winds and damage.

Here's a look at the simulated future radar from the HRRR model. It shows some feisty thunderstorms in western Minnesota that eventually move eastward and through the Twin Cities between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m.