According to IPMA, the natural phenomenon is similar to a tornado and is described as a “wind twist”, which can sometimes be “violent”. Along with the wind, water is mixed to the wind, namely from the sea.

Ian, one of The Portugal News readers, filmed this dramatic weather event whilst holidaying in Alvor with his family. To the newspaper, Ian said that he and his family have been “coming to Alvor for about 15 years and never even had rain before, let alone something like this.”

Although there was concern, no damage to people or personal belongings was registered.