Residents near Highland Gate watched as an unusual funnel-shaped formation developed beneath a dark storm cloud shortly before 12:00 today.

The formation was spotted near Greystone Lodge, off Connemara, between Dullstroom and Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate.

Photographs and video footage shared with the Observer show a distinct funnel-shaped cloud extending downwards from a large storm cloud towards the mountainous landscape.

Local resident Karl Schoeman said the dark clouds had started gathering earlier in the day before the unusual formation became visible.

Weather service assesses footage

The Observer contacted the South African Weather Service (SAWS) for comment.

When shown the footage, SAWS representative Lehlohonolo Thobela responded: “Oh yes, it looks like a funnel cloud.”

A funnel cloud is a rotating, cone-shaped column of air extending from the base of a cloud. It is classified as a tornado if the rotating column makes contact with the ground.

Although the footage shows a striking funnel-shaped formation, it has not been established whether it touched the ground.

Take shelter during severe storms

Residents are urged to remain alert during severe thunderstorms and to seek shelter indoors when threatening weather approaches.

The Observer will update readers should further information become available.