What is waterspout

A waterspout is a type of tornado that forms over warm ocean waters. It's a column of rotating air that descends from a thunderstorm to the surface of the water.

Waterspout Formation Process

Warm Ocean Waters: Waterspouts form in tropical or subtropical ocean waters that are at least 26.5°C (80°F) warm. These warm waters heat the air above them, causing it to rise.

Moisture and Instability: As the air rises, it cools, and the water vapor in the air condenses, forming clouds and releasing heat. This process creates instability in the atmosphere.

Thunderstorm Development: The instability in the atmosphere causes thunderstorms to develop. These thunderstorms can grow tall enough to develop rotation.

Rotation and Touchdown: If the conditions are right, the rotating column of air can extend all the way to the surface of the water, becoming a waterspout.

Characteristics

Funnel Cloud: A waterspout appears as a funnel cloud or a column of rotating air that touches the water's surface.

Wind Speed: Waterspouts typically have wind speeds of 80-240 km/h (50-150 mph).

Diameter: Waterspouts can range from a few meters to several hundred meters in diameter.

Duration: Waterspouts usually last for a few minutes to a few hours.

Types of Waterspouts

Tornadic Waterspout: A waterspout that forms from a thunderstorm and is connected to a tornado.

Non-Tornadic Waterspout: A waterspout that forms from a thunderstorm but is not connected to a tornado.

Differences from Tornadoes

Location: Waterspouts form over water, while tornadoes form over land.

Intensity: Waterspouts are generally weaker than tornadoes.

Duration: Waterspouts usually last for a shorter period than tornadoes.

Safety

Monitoring: Pay attention to weather forecasts and warnings if you're planning to engage in water activities.

Evacuation: If a waterspout is spotted, evacuate the area immediately and seek shelter on land.

Vessel Safety: If you're on a boat, try to navigate away from the waterspout and seek shelter in a nearby harbor or cove.