Funnel Cloud Spotted in Colorado Springs: Residents Capture Rare Sight!

Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA - On June 7, 2025, southeastern Colorado Springs experienced a brief but notable appearance of a funnel cloud that attracted the attention of residents and weather enthusiasts alike. Spotted around 3:30 p.m. by local resident Leslie Trujillo, this fascinating cloud formation arose during a storm while she was attempting to photograph lightning. Fortunately, Trujillo had previous experiences with severe weather that tipped her off to the unusual phenomenon unfolding above her.

Trujillo, who has a strong connection to the area’s weather events, recognized the funnel cloud almost instantly, recalling the nerve-wracking moments from her parents‘ brush with a deadly tornado in 2008. After capturing a video of the formation, she and other residents shared their observations on social media, highlighting the sense of community and the shared excitement during storm season.

A Weather Alert for Residents

Although fascinating, funnel clouds can herald turbulent weather and are often seen as a precursor to tornadoes; however, not every funnel cloud leads to such severe outcomes. In this instance, as the cloud formed, it did not touch down, instead weakening over time. Trujillo emphasizes the importance of preparedness during storm season, advising others to stay alert and keep emergency supplies at the ready, including a safe shelter—like a basement—for dire situations.

This kind of cautionary approach is vital, especially considering the records kept by agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). They have tracked tornado activity across the United States since January 1950, maintaining a comprehensive archive of incidents and resulting damage. For Colorado specifically, there has been a total of 2,407 recorded tornadoes from 1950 to 2024, encompassing an estimated $292 million in property damage and various injury reports. According to the details available, just last year, there were 92 tornadoes which incurred approximately $1.5 million in damages among other reports of property loss and injuries.

Understanding Tornado Formation

The meteorological aspects of funnel clouds and tornadoes can be complex. An essential concept is the presence of inflow bands—ragged bands of low cumulus clouds that suggest rotation and play a critical role in storm energy. These currents of air are essential for the development of severe storms. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, a wall cloud may take shape beneath these towering storm systems, often showing signs of persistent rotation and may become a tornado in mere minutes. Yet, many wall clouds fail to produce tornadoes, illustrating the unpredictability of severe weather.

Capping this all off, it’s essential for residents to understand the dynamics of these weather events. Tornadoes can indeed form from a condensation funnel without a fully condensed body. Dust and debris signs, while alarming, confirm the presence of a touching tornado. As the storm system intensifies, awareness and preparation can go a long way to safeguard lives and property.

In the face of nature’s unpredictability, learning from experiences, as Leslie Trujillo has, helps build resilience in communities like Colorado Springs. By sharing knowledge and staying alert, residents can navigate these stormy skies with a good hand on safety.