Possible large tornado in Sharia, Algeria

A large rotating air column was observed over the city of Sharia in the Algerian province of Tebessa on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Reports vary on whether or not it touched down on Earth’s Surface making it unclear whether it was a funnel cloud or tornado.

Heavy rains accompanied by what appears to be a large tornado impacted the city of Sharia in Tebessa province of Algeria on Wednesday. There are unconfirmed reports of widespread damage.

Visuals shared online show the column of air swirling downward from the sky. Reports vary as to whether or not it touched down on the ground, making it unclear whether or not it was a tornado or a funnel cloud.

While both tornadoes and funnel clouds are rotating air masses, a funnel cloud is only termed a tornado when it touches down on Earth’s surface.

If you live in the affected region or have more information about this event, please share it with us.

Rishav Kothari

I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.

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