Huge waterspout forms over Lake Huron as Canadian beachgoers watch in awe

The huge column of water was seen swirling over Lake Huron in Canada - one of North America's five Great Lakes and then hit the ground, causing damage

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Canada: Waterspout forms over Lake Huron at Onatrio

An incredible waterspout swirling over a lake in Canada has been caught on camera.

The huge meandering column of water was sucked up from Lake Huron near Ontario, one of North America's five Great Lakes.

Films filmed by local Jeremy Barber show the weather phenomenon from the shore of Sauble Beach as amazed onlookers look on.

Local eyewitness accounts claimed the twister briefly touched down on the ground, causing damage.

A man on Twitter posted pictures of trees toppled.

The incredible waterspout over Lake Huron in Canada was seen from Sauble Beach (

Picture:

Jeremy Barber/WEATHER TRAKER/TM SWNS)

Waterspouts can occur when cold air passes through a body of water and causes a large difference in temperature. They can last several minutes and travel at speeds of up to 15 knots.

They have characteristics similar to terrestrial tornadoes and are often accompanied by violent thunderstorms as well as strong winds.

They can be especially dangerous when they hit the ground.