A funnel cloud has been spotted hovering in the Kent skyline.

The unusual sight was snapped between Dover and Deal this afternoon as the county experiences changeable weather.

Funnel Cloud spotted over Deal. Video: Naomi Higginson

The cone-shaped cloud forms when a rotating column of wind draws in cloud droplets.

It starts in the same way as a tornado, building around a localised area of intensely low pressure, and is typically associated with the formation of thunderclouds.

Funnel clouds reach towards the ground but never touch it. It is only when it reaches the earth's surface that it becomes a tornado.

If they are formed over water, they can also form waterspouts.

According to the Met Office, the UK sees about 30 tornadoes per year but it is extremely rare that they are strong enough to cause any significant damage.

Deal resident Naomi Higginson was driving when she saw the dramatic phenomena.

"I had been driving in the area and saw it in the skyline," she said.

"Before I pulled over it almost had hit the ground at one point but looked like it came just short.

"But I managed to pull over in Station Road by St Margaret's at Cliffe and got a good view of it. It was a bit scary!"

For all the forecasts, warnings and weather related news, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Deal