Waterspout spotted off Ao Chalong Pier in Phuket
Waterspout spotted off Ao Chalong Pier in Phuket — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.
Images shared by the Phuket Times page at about 3:20pm on May 16 showed a waterspout over the sea off Ao Chalong Pier in Phuket’s Chalong area. The funnel was visible about 20 minutes offshore, stretching in a dark gray-black column from the cloud base to the water surface amid overcast conditions and strong winds.
The images indicated the waterspout formed well out at sea and did not move toward the coast. Its appearance drew wide attention online because the phenomenon is not commonly seen in the area.
Weather conditions and maritime risk
A waterspout is a rotating wind column that forms over water and resembles a tornado, but is generally weaker. It typically develops during unstable weather with thunderclouds and high humidity, according to the source material.
If it forms near boats or the shoreline, it can affect marine navigation. In this case, the visible sea state already included rougher conditions, with rain-heavy skies and stronger wave action around the time of the sighting.
Social media users reacted quickly after the images were posted. Comments included warnings to stay safe and remarks describing the scene as frightening.
Source: https://www.dailynews.co.th/news/5866461/
