A rotating column of air and water spray extending from a cumulonimbus cloud to the sea surface.
phenomenaWhat is Waterspout?
Waterspouts are marine tornadoes that form over warm tropical waters. Fair-weather waterspouts are common in the South China Sea, Strait of Malacca and Gulf of Thailand during the monsoon transition months. They are typically weaker than land tornadoes but can capsize small boats. Tornadic waterspouts associated with severe thunderstorms are more dangerous but rarer in Southeast Asia.
Key points
- A rotating column of air and water spray extending from a cumulonimbus cloud to the sea surface.
- Category: phenomena
Related terms
See also: waterspout is connected to other weather concepts. Browse the full glossary for related definitions.