Bukoba, Tanzania Waterspout

On 3 February, a waterspout formed over Lake Victoria off the shore of Bukoba. This is the first waterspout to have been witnessed in Bukoba.

Here are a few quick facts about waterspouts:

• Waterspouts are similar to tornadoes but form over a water body.
• They are usually weaker than tornadoes, therefore making them less dangerous.
• Waterspouts move slowly.
• There are two categories of waterspouts: tornadic waterspouts and fair weather (or non-tornadic) waterspouts. 
• Tornadic waterspouts have the same characteristics as a land tornado and are essentially tornadoes which form over water or tornadoes which travel from land to water. These are associated with severe thunderstorms.
• Fair weather waterspouts are not associated with severe thunderstorms and form in light wind conditions, under developing cumulus clouds. 
• Fair weather waterspouts form in the opposite directions to tornadoes i.e. they form on the surface and move upwards.
• The waterspout witnessed in Bukoba was non-tornadic.
• Waterspouts dissipate rapidly and have a short life cycle.
• Waterspouts can move onshore posing a risk to lives and property, but they do not travel far inland due to rapid dissipation.
• Even when on water, they pose a risk, so always maintain your distance!
  

(Photographer unknown)

(Photographer: Fazeleabass Datoo)

(Photographer: Fazeleabass Datoo)

(Photographer: Fazeleabass Datoo)

(Photographer unknown)

(Original source of video unknown)

(Original source of video unknown)

(Original source of video unknown)

References:

• National Weather Service (NOAA)