Thunderstorms bring hail, winds, funnel cloud to southwest Manitoba

A series of severe thunderstormsripped through southwestern Manitoba Friday night, dropping walnut-sized hail and funnel clouds in parts of the region.

The storm system originated in Saskatchewan, where four confirmed tornadoes were reported, according to Environment Canada. Tornado warnings and watches across parts of western Manitoba were lifted around 10 p.m. CST.

A funnel cloud was spotted around Virden, Man. at 9:49 p.m., according to a preliminary report by Environment Canada.

Large hail fell on areas around Miniota, Arrow River, and Roblin.

Social media photos appeared to show two grain bins tipped over south of Miniota, which was under a tornado warning at the time, Environment Canada said.

Environment Canada reported wind gusts of close to 100 km/hwere observed in Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, west of Brandon.

In Saskatchewan, the storm system produced four tornadoes: one southeast of Watson, Sask., east of SaskatoonnearQuill Lake, one near the town of Quill Lake, one near Fishing Lake, and one between Wapella and Rocanville, near the Manitoba border. No damage has been reported, Environment Canada said.

The systemalso brought hail ranging from the size of a dime to a golf ball.

There's a chance of more thundershowers in southern Manitoba Saturday afternoon and overnight, but it is expected to clear on Sunday.

• John Sauder'sWeather Forecast