Maelstrom

A maelstrom is a powerful, rotating whirlpool of water often created by strong currents, tides, or storms. It occurs when water spins rapidly around a central point, pulling in everything nearby due to its intense vortex. Maelstroms can be dangerous for ships and swimmers because of the force and unpredictability of the swirling water. They are natural phenomena commonly found in deep ocean channels, narrow straits, or areas of conflicting tidal flows. While they can vary in size and strength, their defining characteristic is the impressive, often violent, circular motion of water.