Our Privacy Statement & Cookie Policy

By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser.

I agree

Waterspout spotted off coast of south China's Hainan

A dramatic waterspout formed on Monday over the sea near Wenchang, south China's Hainan Province.

The towering rotating column connected dark storm clouds to the ocean surface. It lasted for about two minutes and then moved ashore without causing any damage or casualties.

Meteorologists identified it as a classic waterspout – a tornado that develops over warm water. 

While visually stunning, waterspouts can be as dangerous as tornadoes. Authorities advise people heading to coastal or open areas to monitor weather conditions and seek shelter immediately if thunderstorms, strong winds or rotating cloud columns appear.

00:19
Search Trends