Spectacular Waterspout at Îlot Mariannes: An Up-Close Experience

A user has sent us striking images of a waterspout near Îlot Mariannes, located in the southeast of the island. The video provides an impressive close-up view of this natural whirlwind in the midst of formation.

Tornado or Waterspout?

Yashvir Ramlukon, a meteorologist at the Vacoas weather service, explains the difference: a tornado forms over land, whereas a waterspout develops over the ocean.

"It is a rotating column of warm air that forms above a body of water. These warm, humid, and unstable atmospheric conditions promote the formation of active clouds, which can evolve into cumulonimbus clouds," he clarifies.

At the base of this cumulonimbus, a funnel cloud develops and widens until it touches the sea surface. "This phenomenon can be dangerous as it is often accompanied by thunder and lightning. A waterspout can last between 30 and 40 minutes," the meteorologist adds.

Unlike other weather phenomena, a waterspout cannot be predicted, emphasizes Yashvir Ramlukon. It can only be observed as it forms.