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Drone footage reveals “Tornado Rip” vortex invisible from the shore

Popkin
Apr 27, 2026
∙ Paid

Stock image of storm in Pacific ocean; Maximillian cabinet / shutterstock.com

A drone photographer captured a mesmerizing vortex in the water off the coast of Sydney, Australia, known as a “tornado rip.” From 50 feet up, the spiral pattern is unmistakable — a tight, churning column of rotating water. To anyone standing on the beach, the surface looks no …

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