Twin Waterspouts Form Over Hooghly River Near Sagardweep Island

On Thursday, June 18, 2026, residents of Sagardweep island in South 24 Parganas witnessed a rare natural phenomenon as two tornado-like waterspouts simultaneously formed over the Hooghly River. The twin vortices emerged around 11:30 am near the Mahishamari area of the island, causing widespread alarm among local fishermen, boat operators, and residents. Eyewitnesses reported that the river water began swirling unexpectedly before intensifying into two distinct rotating water columns that rose rapidly skyward. Many residents recorded the unusual event on mobile devices, while others sought shelter from the sight.

Local fishermen, who rarely encounter such phenomena, reported that the river water rose abnormally and wind speeds increased dramatically within minutes. Recognizing the danger, fishing boats and trawlers operating in the river quickly moved to safer locations and returned to shore. The waterspouts persisted for several minutes before weather conditions changed dramatically. Dense dark clouds covered the sky, followed by severe winds and heavy rainfall across the Sagardweep area, temporarily disrupting daily life for residents living near the river.

According to meteorological experts, waterspouts or water tornadoes of this type form in coastal and riverine regions due to a combination of water vapor, temperature differences, and atmospheric pressure changes. Though commonly referred to as tornadoes by the general population, such phenomena are technically waterspouts and, while rare, occasionally occur in coastal areas. Administrative authorities advised residents and river users to remain vigilant and heed weather forecasts, particularly those traveling by boat or engaged in fishing activities. As of the time of reporting, no casualties or significant damage had been documented from the event, though it remained a subject of considerable local discussion.