Rare 'gustnado' caught on video during Queensland thunderstorms

A rare phenomenon known as a "gustnado" has been caught on video during Queensland's wild storms. 

The short-lived, swirling gust of wind was spotted in Clifton, in the Darling Downs region, yesterday afternoon.

The rare event came with 120km/h winds and formed on the leading edge of the thunderstorm cell.

Trees, road signs and powerlines were felled in a matter of minutes.

The devastating system was captured on camera by storm chaser Jamie Nicol.

"It was incredible," he said.

"I've never experienced anything like that before.

"The sky went from day to night in a matter of seconds."

The "gustnado" dissipated but the storm cell continued to rage, leaving thousands without power and damaging homes.

Read more: Thousands left without power in Queensland storms