Tornadoes

Front

What is a tornado?

Back

A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that reaches from a storm cloud to the Earth's surface.

Front

What shape does a tornado typically take?

Back

A tornado typically takes the shape of a funnel.

Front

How should you position yourself to be safe during a tornado?

Back

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

Front

What sound is commonly associated with tornadoes?

Back

Tornadoes often sound like a locomotive train.

Front

What is the initial air movement that contributes to tornado formation?

Back

Air must move both upward and downward to create a tornado.

Front

What scale is used to measure the intensity of tornadoes?

Back

The Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale is used to measure the intensity of tornadoes.

Front

What 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 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 is the average lifespan of a tornado?

Back

The average lifespan of a tornado is about 10 minutes, but they can last from a few seconds to over an hour.

Front

What is the typical width of a tornado?

Back

Tornadoes can vary in width, but the average width is about 250 yards.