CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (AP) — Warm, late-summer water and light winds are kicking up swirling winds at the North Carolina coast.
The Star-News of Wilmington reported Friday ( http://bit.ly/qp3wF5 ) that the National Weather Service confirms as many as five waterspouts off the shore from Carolina Beach to Sunset Beach. One became a tornado after it reached land on Thursday.
The weather service says a tornado with 65-mph winds crossed the dunes at Carolina Beach. Witnesses say it tore down a private beach ramp and tossed blue trash barrels above oceanfront houses before disappearing.
John Heuer of Columbus, Ohio, says beachfront renters watched with fascination until they heard the powerful winds coming their way, then everyone ran for cover.
Carolina Beach Capt. Kurt Bartley says no injuries or significant property damage was reported.