Forecasters warn of more storms after funnel cloud sighting in Fresno area
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Radar showed gate-to-gate rotation and hook echo, prompting a weather warning.
- Observers and video reported a rotating cloud or possible funnel cloud, no touchdown.
- Forecast: 30–40% in Fresno, up to 50% in nearby areas; stay weather-aware.
Forecasters issued a weather warning in Fresno County after radar indicated rotation within a developing storm, raising concerns about a possible funnel cloud Thursday.
According to meteorologist Emily Wilson, the alert was prompted by a “gate-to-gate rotation” signature detected on radar, along with a distinct hook echo — both indicators that a storm may be capable of producing a tornado.
“We had been seeing some rotation in the radar signature, and that prompted us to issue that warning,” Wilson said. “We also saw a distinct hook echo in reflectivity, which would indicate there was some rotation in there.”
Observers on the ground reported seeing a rotating cloud formation, possibly a funnel cloud associated with a supercell thunderstorm. While the system appeared well-organized and showed strong rotation, there have been no confirmed reports of a tornado touching down.
“We did get reports of at least a spinning cloud and a possible funnel cloud,” Wilson said. “It looked very well organized and was definitely rotating quite a bit. We also received video of it, and it appears it was at least a funnel cloud, but not an actual touchdown.”
Images and video shared on social media — including footage captured near the area referenced by local observers — supported those reports, showing a visibly rotating cloud base.
The storm activity, which initially appeared routine to some Fresno residents, was more concentrated in parts of Fresno County and surrounding areas, catching some by surprise.
Looking ahead, forecasters say the unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue through the weekend, with additional thunderstorms possible.
“There are chances for thunderstorms through at least Sunday,” Wilson said. “For tomorrow, the setup actually looks stronger than what we saw today.”
Thunderstorm probabilities in Fresno County are forecast between 30% and 40%, which Wilson noted is relatively high for the region. Nearby areas, including parts of Merced and Mariposa counties, could see even greater chances — up to 50%.
While another tornado warning is not guaranteed, officials say the potential for severe weather remains.
“I cannot rule out a tornado,” Wilson said.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware, monitor forecasts, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions as the storm system moves through the central San Joaquin Valley.
This story was originally published April 9, 2026 at 10:36 PM.
