Why in the News?

A yacht sank off the coast of Sicily, Italy after being hit by a Waterspout.

What are Waterspouts?

A waterspout is a rotating column of air and mist over a water body.
It is a weaker relative of tornadoes and typically lasts for about five minutes, although it can occasionally last up to 10 minutes.
Size and Strength:
- Average diameter: Around 165 feet.
- Wind speeds: Can reach up to 100 km/hr.
Waterspouts are more common in tropical waters but can form anywhere with high humidity and relatively warm water temperatures compared to the overlying air.

1. - These are actual tornadoes that either form over water or move from land to water.

They are associated with severe thunderstorms and can be accompanied by high winds, large hail, and dangerous lightning.

- These are more common and form only over water during fair weather.
- They are generally smaller and less dangerous than tornadic waterspouts.

[2020] Consider the following statements:

1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only.

2. Only some cyclones develop an eye.

3. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly 10ºC lesser than that of the surroundings.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1 and 3 only