Off the south-east coast of Australia, 5 water tornadoes were observed

Off the coast of New South Wales, Australia, on May 4, five water tornadoes swept at once. The storm that spawned them also caused heavy hail.

According to NOAA, water tornadoes form over water or move from land to water. They have the same characteristics as the ground ones. They are usually associated with severe thunderstorms and are accompanied by winds and waves, hail and frequent lightning.

Water tornadoes also occur in good weather, they form along the line of cumulus clouds. This type of water tornado is not associated with thunderstorms. A water tornado in good weather develops on the surface of the water and rushes up. In good weather, water tornadoes occur with a weak wind, so they do not move much.

If a water tornado comes ashore, it can cause significant damage and cause injuries to people. Tornadoes that are not associated with storms quickly dissipate when they come ashore and rarely penetrate inland.