The landspout that formed on Wednesday (October 23) in Ras Al Khaimah’s Khedira area is distinct from a tornado and is not classified as a dangerous weather phenomenon, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
In a statement provided to Khaleej Times, NCM noted: “The landspout that emerged yesterday garnered significant attention, particularly with videos and photos being shared, which might have led some to believe it was a tornado. However, it is fundamentally different from a tornado.” NCM further explained that a landspout is not as powerful as a tornado, which is known to cause substantial damage.
“A landspout is akin to a waterspout – both originate from the ground (or water) and extend upwards into the cloud,” stated the spokesperson for the UAE weather bureau. “It is challenging to detect landspouts and waterspouts using radar due to their low altitude, small size, and weak intensity.” This is why NCM often relies on public reports to document their occurrence.
NCM added: “A landspout involves the convergence of two distinct air masses, each with unique physical properties, and the presence of vertical rotation near the ground. Consequently, the landspout is weak and short-lived. Occasionally, it is accompanied by strong winds that lift dust and sand into the air.” In contrast, a tornado, which is more violent, typically forms due to a rotating upward current within a thunderstorm, whereas a landspout occurs during the thunderstorm’s developmental stage.
Large landspouts, which resemble tornados, were observed in Kalba, Ras Al Khaimah, as evidenced by videos shared by NCM on Wednesday. The footage showed rains drenching the area while massive dust formations swirled across the location. Some parts of the UAE also experienced a significant storm on Wednesday, prompting authorities to issue warnings on social media about moderate to heavy rains.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
