Waterspout spotted off the coast of Point Grey in Vancouver
A waterspout was spotted in open water just off the coast of the Vancouver Westside earlier this morning.
According to Environment Canada, the unusual weather occurrence, paired with a brief period of torrential rain, happened at approximately 10 a.m.
The federal agency has issued a marine-based waterspout watch warning for the South Coast due to a potent low pressure system. The notice says waterspouts are possible today over the Strait of Georgia, Howe Sound and Haro Strait. The marine-based warning is in effect until 5 p.m. today.
Half and half over the tower at YVR: pic.twitter.com/EIczyS7jIl
— Vancouver Airport (@yvrairport) September 3, 2015
For the Metro Vancouver region, there is a risk of thunderstorm and showers later in the day.
When tornadoes are over water, they are called a waterspout. Tornadoes occur during atmospheric instability, forming as a rotating column of air that extends between a cloud, usually a cumulonimbus.
A spokesperson with Vancouver International Airport confirmed there is currently no cause for concern and that there was no impact to local air traffic.
Did you spot a waterspout in local waters? Send your photos to tips[at]vancitybuzz[dot]com.
Environment Canada forecast this morning
Image: Environment Canada
Image: Tim Rubenfeld / submitted
Funnel cloud spotted at 5:30 p.m. over Richmond
@news1130weather cold core funnel cloud seen from Richmond Centre at 5:35pm looking WSW pic.twitter.com/wKn8o7jIkt — Darren Howard (@lightningmanAB) September 4, 2015
Check out this tiny funnel cloud south of #YVR. It was more pronounced a few mins ago: @CTVVancouver #chopper9 pic.twitter.com/CwTAljQG2y
— Penny Daflos (@PennyDaflos) September 4, 2015
@MMadryga view from @McArthurGlenVan this afternoon. No surprise about the funnel cloud! #sunshine&storms #WestCoast pic.twitter.com/HRCSEyrrXg
— catherine mack (@catobie) September 4, 2015
A photo posted by Pink B (@positivepink17) on
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