The Saint Lucia Meteorological Services has confirmed that a waterspout was sighted offshore near the island’s northwestern coast around 1:00 p.m. today.
According to Acting Director of the Meteorological Services, Virgil Saltibus, the phenomenon remained over the sea, quickly weakened, and dissipated without reaching land. “It did not cause any impacts on land. So far, we have no reports of damage or injuries,” Saltibus explained.
A waterspout is essentially a small tornado that forms over water. It is a rapidly spinning column of air that draws water upward. While often weaker than land tornadoes, waterspouts can still be dangerous to boats, fishermen, and anyone at sea.
“This one has already dissipated,” Saltibus noted, “but fishers, small craft operators, and others at sea should remain vigilant and avoid the northern waters of the island in case more waterspouts develop.”
Saltibus also clarified that while waterspouts are not common in Saint Lucia, they are not unprecedented. “It is a rare occurrence, but it has happened before. It is not new to our island,” he said.
Authorities are advising seafarers to exercise caution when venturing offshore and to remain alert for sudden weather changes. No further threats have been reported at this time.
