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 is the shape of a tornado?

Back

A tornado typically has a funnel shape.

Front

Where is Tornado Alley located?

Back

Tornado Alley is located in the central United States.

Front

How are tornadoes rated?

Back

Tornadoes are rated by the amount of damage they cause, typically using the Enhanced Fujita Scale.

Front

What should you do to protect yourself during a tornado?

Back

You should sit with your knees to your chest and hold your arms crossed over your head.

Front

What is another name for a tornado?

Back

Another name for a tornado is a cyclone.

Front

What meteorological conditions are necessary for tornado formation?

Back

Tornadoes typically form in severe thunderstorms, particularly supercells, where warm, moist air meets cold, dry air.

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 and a cyclone?

Back

A tornado is a localized, violent windstorm characterized by a funnel-shaped cloud, while a cyclone is a broader term that refers to a system of winds rotating around a center of low atmospheric pressure.

Front

What is the typical lifespan of a tornado?

Back

The typical lifespan of a tornado is a few minutes to over an hour, but most last less than 10 minutes.