Archive · 25 Aug 2026
Rare Rotating Water Column Spotted Over Brahmaputra River In Assam
People in Assam saw a tall, spinning column of water above the Brahmaputra River.
It looked like a funnel reaching from the river up toward a cloud.
A local recorded the event, and the video quickly spread online.
Some people worried that it might warn of a natural disaster.
Experts said there is no confirmed evidence that this kind of event predicts an earthquake.
The phenomenon is similar to what is called a waterspout.
Waterspouts can form randomly and are difficult to predict.
They usually last less than 20 minutes, so people should leave the water and find a safe building when one appears.
A funnel-shaped rotating water column was reportedly seen over the Brahmaputra River in Paharpur, Baghbar, Barpeta.
A local captured video showing the column extending upward toward a cloud and spreading on social media.
Some locals wondered whether the phenomenon could signal an approaching natural disaster.
Experts said there is no confirmed scientific basis for linking such a water column to earthquakes.
Scientists advised people to leave the water, seek land-based shelter, and stay inside solid buildings near shorelines.
- Who
- Local residents witnessed and recorded the phenomenon; scientists provided safety guidance.
- What
- A rare rotating water column resembling a waterspout was seen over the Brahmaputra River.
- When
- The report does not specify the date or time of the sighting.
- Where
- The Paharpur area of Baghbar in Barpeta district, Assam, over the Brahmaputra River.
- Why
- The column formed as a meteorological phenomenon; the report says its formation, timing, and location are difficult to predict.
Local Concerns
Scientific Assessment
Possible disaster warning
Local Concerns
Some locals believed the unusual water column might be a warning of a natural disaster.
Scientific Assessment
Experts said there is no confirmed scientific basis for claiming that the phenomenon precedes an earthquake.
Public response
Local Concerns
The sighting caused curiosity and concern among local residents after the video spread online.
Scientific Assessment
Scientists emphasized practical precautions, including leaving the water and taking shelter when a waterspout is seen.
- Phenomenon
- A rotating water column resembling a waterspout
- Location
- Paharpur area of Baghbar, Barpeta district, Assam
- Water body
- Brahmaputra River
- Evidence
- Video footage captured by a local and circulated on social media
- Earthquake link
- Experts said there is no confirmed scientific basis for treating it as an earthquake precursor
- Typical duration
- Usually no more than 20 minutes
- Safety advice
- Stop water activities, move onto land, and seek shelter in solid buildings near the shore