SAIPAN — The CNMI Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management reported Wednesday afternoon that a funnel cloud was sighted over the southern Saipan area, with authorities monitoring whether it has reached the ocean surface and become a waterspout.
HSEM, working in coordination with the National Weather Service in Guam, received the reports at approximately 3:15 p.m. ChST. It was not immediately known whether the funnel cloud had fully descended to the water.
Fair-weather waterspouts, which are common in the Marianas, form in light wind conditions and are generally less dangerous than tornadoes. They typically dissipate quickly upon making landfall and rarely penetrate far inland. Wind speeds, however, can still reach 50 to 70 mph and are capable of damaging property or causing injuries.
HSEM advises anyone who spots a waterspout to immediately move at a 90-degree angle from its apparent direction of travel and to never attempt to navigate through one by boat or vehicle. Mariners are also urged to monitor NOAA Weather Radio for any special marine warnings.
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