Meteorology · Waterspout
A waterspout is best described as:
- AA large ocean swell
- BA rotating column of air (often tornadic or fair-weather) extending from a cloud to the sea surface✓ Correct
- CA type of fog
- DA breaking wave
Explanation
A waterspout is a vortex over water connecting a cumuliform cloud to the surface. Fair-weather spouts are usually weaker; tornadic spouts associated with severe storms can be dangerous. Vessels alter course to avoid them.
Authority: NOAA/NWS; Bowditch (Pub. No. 9)
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