At the time of the waterspout, meteorologist Chris Ramirez reported that there were winds at an estimated 60 mph in the area.
GALVESTON, Texas — A day at the beach Saturday turned a little scary, thanks to a waterspout moving in.
According to Galveston Beach Patrol, the waterspout traveled across the beach near Seawall and 45th Street at around 1 p.m. When it did, they told people to get out of the water and move away from the beach.
At this point, there are no reports of injuries or any major damage, but there were items, like blankets, tents and beach umbrellas that were thrown around by the high winds.
According to KHOU 11 meteorologist Chris Ramirez, the waterspout was seen in the area where there was rotation.
“Just before 1 p.m., isolated storms were flaring up along Seawall Blvd in Galveston along a sea breeze front,” he said. “Our rotation detector caught a blip of radar estimated 60 mph winds that was associated with a waterspout. Winds at 60 mph are enough to damage and knock around tents, umbrellas, and other outdoor beach materials. This was likely a non-tornadic waterspout that formed and dissipated quickly with an isolated storm along the seawall. Non-tornadic waterspouts usually have short lifespans ranging from 2 to 20 minutes.”
Below is a screenshot showing the rotation in the spot.
We started to see photos and videos of the waterspout online.
Rick Harper said he was outside shooting baskets when, out of the corner of his eye, he noticed the waterspout behind his house. Below is his video.
Even with the waterspout, Harper said he made the shot!
Olivia Villaloboz was on the beach and said the wind tore apart tents and tossed belongings all over the beach. Below is video she shared with us.
More videos of Saturday’s waterspout are below.