A water spout off the starboard bow of the JOIDES Resolution. [A note about water spouts: These are rotating columns of air similar in appearance to tornadoes. They develop over warm ocean currents during unstable conditions or as cold front boundaries pass over the ocean. These are not very dangerous but can affect boats and yachts. Because they are over the ocean, they do not pick up debris but water spray is observed at the base.] [Photo ID: exp312_110] Back to expedition photos.