Stronger thunderstorm cells are capable of producing tornadoes and waterspouts. In contrast, tornadic waterspouts are stronger tornadoes over water. Six weak tornadoes or waterspouts were recorded, but generally minor damage was observed. There are also a smaller number of storm chasers who intercept tropical cyclones and waterspouts. A current scientific hypothesis involves tornadic waterspouts&colon; a tornado that forms over the water. The town is situated in an area where tornadoes and waterspouts are common. Gargoyles are carved stone figures sometimes resembling dragons that originally served as waterspouts on buildings. The first category includes tornadoes, waterspouts, and landspouts. There are also dolphins serving as waterspouts and Nereids serving as caryatids. These clouds also produce fair weather waterspouts forming from mesocyclones. Storm cells sometimes bring with them fair weather waterspouts when close to the shore. Three simultaneous waterspouts were observed over Lake Pontchartrain during the event as well. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Etruscans, and Romans all used animal-shaped waterspouts. Infrequent waterspouts can also be seen out on Lake Erie. Incidents of waterspouts causing severe damage and casualties are rare.