During the National Day holiday in mainland China, on October 4th, a phenomenon known as “dragon sucking water” appeared in Yunfu, Guangdong, where a water column shot straight up into the clouds, creating a stunning scene where water and sky seemed to merge. Witnesses reported that despite being 50 years old, they had never seen a waterspout (scientifically known as “dragon sucking water”) in that area before.
Various videos circulating on social media captured the moment when a distinct water column formed on the surface of the West River in Yunfu, connecting with the clouds above. These videos quickly garnered attention online.
According to a report by Guangdong Radio and Television’s “DV Scene,” local netizens revealed that a waterspout appeared in the West River Basin in Liudu Town on the afternoon of October 4th. Witness Mr. Chen (pseudonym) recounted that the event occurred after 4 pm, and when he first saw the waterspout, he was “startled” by how “tall and sci-fi” the water column appeared to be.
A report by “Xiaoxiang Morning News” featured Mr. Tong, another witness, who claimed that despite being 50 years old, it was his first time witnessing such a phenomenon. Due to the strong winds associated with the waterspout, multiple boats were seen evading the area.
The Guangdong Meteorological Department also released information regarding the waterspout. The local emergency management agency stated that the waterspout lasted for approximately 7 minutes with no casualties reported.
Waterspouts, colloquially known as “dragon sucking water,” are a type of tornado that occurs over the sea, lake, or river surfaces, possessing significant suction power that can draw water from the surface and form a column connecting with the clouds.
The Guangdong Provincial Meteorological Service Center previously issued warnings, emphasizing that while some waterspouts may appear small in scale, they possess immense destructive power, capable of damaging vessels and claiming lives.