'Monster' Waterspout Wows Tourists in Jamaica

Negril, Jamaica – A remarkable natural phenomenon captivated visitors on Sunday as a massive waterspout formed off the coast of Negril. Pat Aleywine, one of the onlookers, recorded the event, noting the funnel's impressive development above the choppy waters. “It’s a waterspout trying to form up,” he exclaimed, encouraging others to prepare for the spectacle. As the waterspout approached, the audience expressed their awe, with Aleywine clarifying that it was not a tornado, but a waterspout, which typically forms over water. Waterspouts can develop during both thunderstorms and fair weather, with the latter being more common. Unlike tornadoes, which occur over land during severe weather, waterspouts are generally harmless but can pose risks if they move onto land. Aleywine described the sight as “fabulous,” marveling at the transformation of the waterspout into a larger funnel. While most waterspouts are benign, they can occasionally lead to destructive outcomes. A recent incident in Buffalo, New York, serves as a reminder of this potential danger. On August 5, a waterspout that originated from Lake Erie made landfall and intensified into an EF-1 tornado, resulting in damage to the downtown area and leaving one person missing. The awe-inspiring display in Jamaica highlights the beauty and unpredictability of weather phenomena, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories of nature's power.