Multiple sea spouts developed in the sea off the Istrian coast today, and footage and photographs of the scenes quickly spread across social media. The IstraMet portal published scenes of spouts recorded in the Poreč, Kaštelir and Vrsar areas, while one spout was also filmed not far from Rovinj.
The unusual sights come ahead of forecast weather deterioration, which could bring more pronounced showers, thunder and strong gusts of wind during the afternoon. Mostly cloudy weather with occasional rain is forecast for Istria today, with showers expected in particular during the afternoon that may be accompanied by thunder.
The wind will change direction and strengthen during the day. A light to moderate south-westerly will turn into a moderate to strong bora and north-westerly, with storm-force gusts possible in places.
Sea spouts form in unstable atmospheric conditions, most often within thunderclouds, as part of unstable weather systems. They are recognisable by the swirling column connecting the cloud to the sea surface.
Although they are often short-lived, spouts can pose a serious danger to small vessels, especially if they develop in their immediate vicinity. There is also a danger if a spout approaches the shore, which is why additional caution is required during such weather events.
