Tornadoes

Front

What is a tornado?

Back

A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground.

Front

What shape does a tornado typically take?

Back

A tornado typically takes the shape of a funnel.

Front

What sound is often associated with tornadoes?

Back

Tornadoes are often compared to the sound of a locomotive train.

Front

Do scientists know everything about tornadoes?

Back

No, scientists do not know everything there is to know about tornadoes.

Front

What conditions are necessary for a tornado to form?

Back

A tornado forms when warm, moist air meets cold, dry air, creating instability in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the Enhanced Fujita Scale?

Back

The Enhanced Fujita Scale is a scale used to rate the intensity of tornadoes based on the damage they cause.

Front

What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?

Back

A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.

Front

What role do supercell thunderstorms play in tornado formation?

Back

Supercell thunderstorms are the most common type of storm that produces tornadoes due to their rotating nature.

Front

What is the typical lifespan of a tornado?

Back

The typical lifespan of a tornado is a few minutes to over an hour.

Front

What is the average width of a tornado?

Back

The average width of a tornado is about 250 yards, but they can range from a few yards to over a mile.