Shocking tornado-like sea eruption spotted on Florida beach

A video of a sleevefishing session in Panama City Beach, Florida, has captivated users on TikTok.

The viral video, posted by social media user @crystalhannon_, shows the scene of a tornado-like plume of water. The video has garnered more than 3.7 million views since it was posted on July 24.

According to a later comment, the images were captured outside the Casa Loma hotel on July 24.

A caption shared with the post simply read: “Sea horn at Panama City Beach!” The video shows the mesmerizing spinning column against a dark, cloudy sky above the water.

What is a waterspout?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Ocean Service explains that a waterspout is “a swirling column of air and water mist.” They are more common than you might think, especially in areas with warm tropical ocean waters.

Some may look like ghostly funnel clouds falling from a stormy sky, while others can be nearly invisible. These “eerie columns of spinning air,” commonly known as tornadoes over water, are most often seen in the Florida Keys, but have also been observed over the Great Lakes.

Waterspouts are classified into two types: tornadic and fair-weather. Tornadic waterspouts are, as their name implies, tornadoes that form over water or move from land to water. They share the same characteristics as land-based tornadoes and are associated with severe thunderstorms. Tornadic waterspouts typically bring with them strong winds and rough seas, often accompanied by large hail and frequent, dangerous lightning.

In contrast, fair weather swells often form along the base of developing cumulus clouds, not usually associated with thunderstorms. A fair weather swell starts at the water’s surface and moves upward. Once the funnel is visible, it means the swell is close to maturity. These swells form in light wind conditions and usually move very little.

When a waterspout moves toward land, the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a tornado watch because it can cause significant damage and injuries. But fair-weather waterspouts typically disappear quickly upon making landfall, the National Oceanic Service says.

Citing advice from the NWS, the National Ocean Service warns that “the best way to avoid a waterspout is to move at a 90-degree angle to its apparent motion. Never approach to investigate a waterspout. Some can be as dangerous as (land-based) tornadoes.”

‘I’ve never seen anything like it’

TikTok users were stunned by the water pipe footage in the viral clip.

Holzhazeleyes69 said: “Wow! I’ve never seen anything like this!” and @our_.apartment said: “Oh my god, that’s crazy! I was literally there.”

Connie Mauk wrote: “I’ve never seen a waterspout like this, thanks for sharing.”

Checky! said “Wow, that’s a big deal!” and chochomama12 commented “That’s the most detailed thing ever!”

“How beautiful Mother Nature is, putting on an exceptional show,” said wayneluke24.

“So cool!! I love how the rain is almost letting up and we can see it,” said robcormier300.

Newsweek Magazine has contacted the original author of the video for comment via TikTok. This video has not been independently verified.

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