Whirling Simoon damage/blind

Is it right that this spell is that variable on damage? Just seems weird that it can OBLITERATE or scratch - especially given it's limitations. Never seen it blind either (least against mobs). You call upon the desert, and a blistering simoon howls into being! Your whirling simoon *** DEVASTATES *** the tribal hunter! Your whirling simoon MASSACRES a merchant! Your whirling simoon MUTILATES a merchant! Your whirling simoon MUTILATES a merchant! Your whirling simoon wounds the nomad trader. Your whirling simoon wounds the caravan guard. Your whirling simoon wounds the caravan guard. The tribal hunter is writhing in agony.