Whirlwind spotted in Cebu identified as dust devil, not tornado

A swirling column of air seen outside a school in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu was identified as a dust devil, not a tornado.

According to Kuya Kim's report on "24 Oras," Wednesday, the incident was caught on video by some students.

"Nando'n kami sa labas ng classroom namin para hintayin 'yung guro namin para i-surprise for Teacher's Day din. A minute after, 'yung hangin ay medyo lumalakas na din," student Kristina Loren Inoc said.

After a few seconds, the whirlwind disappeared and caused no damage.

According to PAGASA Visayas Weather Services Chief Alfredo Quiblat Jr., the phenomenon was a dust devil, which is smaller and weaker than a tornado and is formed in dry areas.

"Kapag mainit 'yung hangin, nagko-cause ito ng abrupt na updraft. 'Yung pag-angat ng mainit na hangin, pataas na umiikot. Dala niya 'yung mga dust, alikabok, kaya tinatawag siya na dust devil. Nangyari siya sa magandang panahon. Kasi 'yung mga buhawi, atmospheric phenomena, na nangyari sa thunderstorm," he said.

When encountering a dust devil, the public is advised to stay calm and keep a safe distance, as it may still carry small debris that can cause injury.

Residents must seek shelter immediately and protect their eyes and mouth from dust. —Carby Rose Basina/MGP, GMA Integrated News