We saw the funnel of the maelstrom, heard
the rock bellowing all around, and dark
sand raged on the bottom far below.
My men all blanched against the gloom, our eyes
were fixed upon that yawning mouth in fear
of being devoured.

Which statement best explains the metaphor in this excerpt?

The whirlpool is compared to a mouth, showing its decreasing strength.
The whirlpool is compared to a mouth, showing its menacing threat.
The whirlpool is compared to a sandy beach, showing its proximity.
The whirlpool is compared to a sandy beach, showing its familiarity.