: Waterspout winds are generally, not always, considerably lower than
: tornados, but the wind speeds are upwards of 150 mph, you're not
: going to hang on to anything with winds of that speed, getting
: away from things that have mass and can be accelerated towards
: you is a far better idea, like a boat, paddle etc.

: Bill H.

Getting away from your boat in 150 mph winds? I say stay aboard and keep low. I would hold the paddle at the waterline in a forward roll position, laying my body down low. If the paddle did get away that's what spares are for, but throwing it away just risks it becoming a projectile.

I have now seen spouts on at least six occasions on the water. Usually they are much further offshore. This is about the closest I have gotten. I have often pondered over what to do. Paddling like heck away from it is only an option if it doesn't land right on top of you. This one, as you can see, came out at an angle and landed. It formed in seconds and hung there for a good minute or two. From a kayaker's vantage point it would have come from right on top of you. I think you'd be forced to stay put and lay low. There would have been no warning.