Can It Really Rain Fish?

fish, waterspouts, storms
Under certain circumstances, fish and other aquatic animals have actually rained from the sky. (Image credit: Melvin Lee | ShutterstockMelvin Lee | Shutterstock)

You might need to invest in a tougher umbrella, because fish, and other aquatic animals, have been know to occasionally fall from the sky.

The fish can't fly though — they get sucked up from lakes or the ocean by waterspouts during a storm. The strong winds in these storms can sometimes carry displaced fish, frogs or even snakes for miles inland before dropping them on unsuspecting towns.

A waterspout works just like a tornado but forms over water.

These fish falls have been documented everywhere from California to England to India.

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Live Science Staff
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.