The rotating columns of air that occur over water bodies and are generally less severe than land tornadoes are known as:

The correct answer is waterspouts.

Key Points

• Waterspouts are rotating columns of air and mist that form over a water body, commonly observed in tropical and subtropical regions.
• They are typically less intense and smaller in scale compared to tornadoes that form over land.
• Waterspouts are classified into two types: fair-weather waterspouts and tornadic waterspouts.
• Fair-weather waterspouts develop in relatively calm conditions, while tornadic waterspouts are associated with severe thunderstorms.
• Despite being less destructive, waterspouts can pose significant threats to small boats, swimmers, and coastal areas.

Additional Information

• Hurricanes
  • Hurricanes are large, powerful tropical cyclones that form over warm ocean waters, primarily in the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific.
  • They are characterized by strong winds, heavy rains, and can cause significant damage to coastal and inland areas.
  • Hurricanes are categorized on the Saffir-Simpson scale, ranging from Category 1 (least severe) to Category 5 (most severe).
• Squalls
  • Squalls are sudden, sharp increases in wind speed, often accompanied by heavy rain, thunderstorms, or snow.
  • They can occur in various weather systems, including cold fronts and tropical storms.
  • Squalls can lead to hazardous conditions for marine and aviation activities.
• Typhoons
  • Typhoons are the equivalent of hurricanes in the Northwest Pacific Ocean.
  • They exhibit similar characteristics, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential for widespread destruction.
  • Typhoons are monitored and classified by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and other regional meteorological organizations.