Waterspout Forms Off Put-in-Bay Shore

A waterspout was spotted forming over Lake Erie near Put-in-Bay on the afternoon of August 1, 2025. The thin, twisting column of air reached down from dark clouds above, drawing attention from onlookers near The Keys and the downtown harbor.

Waterspouts are tornado-like funnels that form over water. They’re most common in late summer when warm lake temperatures meet unstable air. While most are weak and short-lived, they’re still a fascinating reminder of the island’s ever-changing weather.

No damage was reported, and the waterspout quickly dissipated.

Photo credit: Anita McCann, Island Resident