Overview

• The International Centre for Waterspout Research confirmed at least 25 waterspouts over the Great Lakes on August 23–24, with additional reports under review.
• ICWR forecasts favorable conditions for new waterspouts through August 26, with some outlooks suggesting the risk could linger into Wednesday.
• Videos and photos documented nearshore funnels on Lakes Michigan and Erie, drawing broad attention on social media.
• Meteorologists cite colder air aloft over comparatively warm lake surfaces as the trigger for instability and rotation that produce waterspouts.
• The National Weather Service advises moving at a 90‑degree angle away from a waterspout’s path and seeking the nearest harbor if in a boat.