Are Waterspouts On Lake Superior Considered Tornadoes?
Do you know the difference between a tornado and a waterspout? It's somewhat confusing because sometimes the weather phenomenon can be both. Which is more dangerous, and what should you do if you see one?
Yes, waterspouts are tornadoes, but there is a significant difference in danger when it comes to how waterspouts develop. If a waterspout develops over the water in fair weather, it's less dangerous. It's called a fair-weather waterspout. These waterspouts are common on Lake Superior because of the difference in lake water temperature.
Fair Weather Waterspouts - Funnel Starts At Water Surface
A fair-weather waterspout happens when cold, dry air moves over the warmer lake water (typically happens in late summer and in fall). The warm air rises from the water surface and swirls with columns of wind that draw water upwards to create the funnel you see. But once that funnel is visible, the waterspout has nearly reached its end. Fairweather waterspouts don't last very long and don't travel very far.
Fair-weather Waterspouts Are Still Dangerous
Waterspouts can be dangerous to boaters. If you see one, you're supposed to go 90 degrees opposite its path. The wind and water that kick up could capsize your vessel or cause damage.
Read More: Rare Phenomenon Drains Portion Of Lake Superior
Severe Tornadic Waterspouts - Funnel Comes Down From Cloud
Tornadic waterspouts are more dangerous than the two, because they are formed by severe thunderstorms. It can be a tornado that touches down in the water, or a tornado that moves from land to water. It's different than a fair-weather waterspout because it's a full-strength tornado that just happens to be over water. Hail, high winds, lightning, and heavy rain accompany these weather events.
You'll definitely want to seek shelter in a basement or interior room if a tornadic waterspout occurs.