Not uncommon but always awe-inspiring, a waterspout made an appearance in the waters off Miami Beach this past Saturday, August 31. Residents and visitors of the famous South Beach neighborhood were taken by surprise in the morning hours by this stunning natural phenomenon.
A video shared on the popular Instagram account Only in Dade showcased a perfectly formed waterspout just a few hundred meters from the shore. "Just another day in Miami," commented one user, while others couldn't hold back their "wow!" at the sight.
At the end of August, another waterspout, captured from the top of a building in Miami Beach, came dangerously close to a yacht sailing in the area. Thankfully, the waterspout veered off at the last moment, averting a potentially disastrous situation for those on board.
A few weeks earlier, amid the bad weather that prevailed in South Florida in late July, social media images circulated of another impressive waterspout, this time in the Key Biscayne area.
In mid-June, cameras captured yet another waterspout forming in the waters of Miami Beach. Waterspouts are a recurrent sight in South Florida waters during hurricane season.
Understanding Waterspouts in South Florida
Waterspouts are a common yet fascinating natural occurrence in South Florida, especially during hurricane season. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you understand more about this phenomenon.
What is a waterspout?
A waterspout is a tornado that occurs over a body of water. They can be just as dangerous as land tornadoes if they make landfall or come too close to boats and other watercraft.
Are waterspouts common in South Florida?
Yes, waterspouts are quite common in South Florida, particularly during the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
What should you do if you see a waterspout?
If you see a waterspout, it's important to keep a safe distance. If you're on a boat, steer away from the waterspout's path. On land, seek shelter and avoid the coast until the waterspout dissipates.