Waterspout formation typically occurs when cold air moves across the Great Lakes and results in large temperature differences between the warm water and the overriding cold air. They tend to last from about two to twenty minutes, and move along at speeds of 10 to 15 knots. Dr.

Where do waterspouts occur?

Waterspouts are most common in tropical and subtropical waters, such as the Florida Keys, the islands of Greece, and off the east coast of Australia. There are five stages of waterspout formation: 1. Dark spot.

Are waterspouts dangerous?

Although waterspouts are not as destructive as their land based cousins their ability to carry anything in their path makes them dangerous to vessels and small craft. Not only can waterspouts cause havoc to mariners, they can devastate coral reefs and marine organisms that are close to the waters surface.