Exclusive — For the second time this week a funnel cloud has formed as unstable weather conditions continue over the country.

The funnel cloud, which isn’t a tornado until it touches the ground, was photographed by two WeatherWatch.co.nz readers Tina Sloan and James Ford-Hathaway and posted on our Facebook page this afternoon.

The funnel cloud was spotted in Bulls and nearby Sanson and didn’t touch the ground.

Funnel clouds are often associated with thunderstorms or heavy showers when warm and cold air masses cause the air to start spinning.

On Monday night a similar funnel cloud was seen near Hamilton East following some heavy showers and thunderstorms.

Earlier this week WeatherWatch.co.nz said tornadoes and funnel clouds were possible this week due to the humid unstable conditions over inland New Zealand.

WeatherWatch.co.nz says thunderstorms, heavy showers and a low risk of an isolated tornado are still possible across some parts of central New Zealand this afternoon, with the risk clearing overnight.

Thunderstorms are again possible in some inland areas this weekend.

Above & Below / Tina Sloan

Above – James Ford-Hathaway

– WeatherWatch.co.nz EXCLUSIVE