A Spout InThe South

Residents of the Stann Creek District observed a curious weather phenomenon near Dangriga today. This is what they saw: a funnel from a heavy grey cloud going down to the sea. Many people sent videos to our newsroom saying it's a tornado, but, actually, it's not. The MET Office confirms that it's what's called a water spout - which is not anywhere nearly as intense as a tornado. Forecaster Francesca Wellington told us that it is caused by instability in the atmosphere - similar to thunderstorms. She said these water spouts are not that unusual, and pose no real threat to life or property. She says they usually break up as they come unto land. Eyewitnesses say this one hovered in the sky for more than a minute.