Water spouts create spectacle in Chalong Bay, not a tornado
Water spouts moving through Chalong Bay’s anchorage sparked online discussions yesterday, April 11, with many referring to the event as a “tornado.”
However, Brent McInnes from the Phuket Cruising Yacht Club, who witnessed the event, clarified that this was not the case.
Several videos of the water spouts were shared online by onlookers, including staff at the Phuket Tourist Assistance Center at Chalong Pier. McInnes, who has over 30 years of sailing experience in Phuket, explained that the phenomenon was caused by two opposing weather fronts converging over Chalong Bay.
He described the fronts as originating from the northeast and the southwest, meeting over Chalong anchorage. This convergence resulted in the formation of multiple revolving water spouts, persisting for approximately 45 minutes before dissipating.
McInnes reported wind speeds reaching over 30 knots, with one yacht’s instruments recording speeds of 40 knots, emphasising that it was not a tornado. He confirmed the presence of six to eight separate water spouts, with two being particularly notable for their size, measuring about 60 metres and 100 metres across at their bases, moving in opposite directions.
While some boats experienced minor damage, such as being knocked around on their moorings or having canvas coverings torn off, McInnes noted that there were no reports of injuries. He described the event as a “weather anomaly” and a rare occurrence in the area, despite water spouts happening occasionally, reported The Phuket News.
In similar news, a tourist boat carrying 35 Russian passengers narrowly avoided disaster near Sak Island on March 18 after a massive cloud of black smoke engulfed the vessel. Thankfully, quick action by the captain and emergency services ensured everyone’s safety.
The Marine Disaster Prevention Radio Center in Pattaya received an urgent report of a fire on the two-story Pattaya Bay Cruise boat, located around 500 metres from Sak Island, near Koh Larn. Rescue and firefighting vessels were immediately dispatched. Upon arrival, officials found thick black smoke emanating from the engine room but confirmed there was no fire on board after a thorough inspection.
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