Is there a real maelstrom?
A maelstrom is a whirlpool created when moving water twists and turns. This is actually a common occurrence in any body of water, be it a river or lake, but when it occurs in the ocean, things can get very dangerous very quickly.
What is the biggest maelstrom in the world?
Saltstraumen
The maelstrom phenomenon in Saltstraumen is governed by the rise and fall of the currents. Every 6 hours almost 400 million cubic meters of water have to pass through a 3 km long and 150-meter wide strait between Saltenfjord and Skjerstadfjord.
What is the strongest maelstrom?
Saltstraumen is the most powerful maelstrom in the world. The water speed has been measured at over 20 knots, and more than 3,000 m3 of water flow across the entrance to the fjord every second. Saltstraumen is very rich in fish, some of which are famously big.
Where is the maelstrom in Norway?
Lofoten islands
Maelstrom, Norwegian Moskenstraumen or Moskstraumen, marine channel and strong tidal current of the Norwegian Sea, in the Lofoten islands, northern Norway. Flowing between the islands of Moskenesøya (north) and Mosken (south), it has a treacherous current.
Are maelstroms permanent?
Some maelstroms develop because of temporary environmental conditions, while some exist in areas that are so conducive to their existence that they’ve existed for hundreds of years. There are three permanent maelstroms: Saltstraumen—the world’s strongest maelstrom located off the coast of Norway.
Do people drown in whirlpools?
Whirlpools are the bane of novice kayakers and the exhilaration of well-experienced adrenaline junkies. Found in rivers, tidal waters near their mouths or other areas where currents swirl in more than one direction, whirlpools pose a potential danger of drowning.
How big can a maelstrom get?
The largest whirlpool has a diameter of 130 to 160 feet and induces a surface water ripple of up to 3 feet. Moskstraumen result from several factors such as tides, strong winds, the position of the Lofotodden, and the topography of the underwater.
Will a life jacket save you in a whirlpool?
Wear a life vest when boating or kayaking to help you stay afloat should you become caught up in a whirlpool. Don’t ditch your craft, as flotation will keep you from becoming pinned below the surface by the force of the water.