A dust devil is a small, rotating column of air that forms over dry ground, often in hot, sunny conditions. It occurs when warm air rises rapidly, creating a low-pressure area that draws in cooler air. This process can lift dust, debris, and small particles into the air, creating a visible spiral. Dust devils are typically harmless and can vary in size, from a few feet to several hundred feet tall. They are most commonly seen in arid regions, such as deserts, and are often mistaken for tornadoes, although they are much weaker and less destructive.