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What is a tornado? -

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

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Where do tornadoes come from? -

Tornadoes form from the energy released in a thunderstorm. Although they account for only a small fraction of the storm's overall energy, that energy is concentrated in a small area, making tornadoes extremely dangerous.

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Where do tornadoes occur? -

Tornadoes occur in many parts of the world, including Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Most tornadoes are found in the Great Plains of the central United States.

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When do tornadoes occur? -

Tornadoes mostly occur in the spring and summer, usually in the late afternoon or early evening. However, there have been instances of tornadoes occurring in every state in the United States on any day of the year and at any hour.

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Characteristics of tornadoes -

Winds in a tornado are almost always cyclonic. They turn counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. Once a tornado hits the ground, it may live for as little as a few seconds or as long as three hours.

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Tornado destruction -

The damage from tornadoes comes from the strong winds they contain and the flying debris they create. Wind speeds can reach over 300 mph (482 km/h) in the most violent tornadoes.

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Tornado destruction -

In the US, tornadoes cause around US$400 million in damage and kill around 70 people on average each year. 

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The deadliest tornado in world history -

The deadliest tornado in world history was the Daulatpur–Saturia tornado in Bangladesh on April 26, 1989. The tornado killed approximately 1,300 people.

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How are tornadoes forecasted? -

Meteorologists use Doppler radars, satellites, weather balloons, and computer modeling to monitor the skies for severe storms and tornadic activity.

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Doppler radars -

Doppler radars record wind speeds and identify pockets of rotation within thunderstorms. Since 1971, when the Doppler radar became operational, the warning time for tornadoes grew from fewer than five minutes in the 1980s to an average of 13 minutes by the late 2000s.

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Detecting tornadoes -

Humans play an important role in tornado detection, as not all tornadoes can be picked up by Doppler radar. Citizen volunteers make up the SKYWARN network; they watch for approaching tornadoes and relay the information to the National Weather Service.

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Machine learning and tornado detection -

Scientists are currently testing AI-driven programs to help forecast tornadoes. The programs may be able to advise airlines to reroute planes ahead of disruptions and help disaster responders plan where they should have additional emergency crews on standby.

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Tornadoes and climate change -

Further research is required, but evidence suggests climate change could be influencing the patterns of tornadoes. Warmer air and changing weather conditions may lead to more intense storms, which could create the perfect conditions for tornadoes.

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What are the wind speeds in a tornado? -

Experts aren't sure what the highest wind speed might be inside a tornado, as violent tornadoes destroy weather equipment. However, the strongest tornado recorded was 318 mph (511 km/h). 

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How are tornadoes measured? -

Tornadoes are measured using the Enhanced Fujita Scale, which rates their strength based on the damage they cause. The scale ranges from EF0 to EF5. 

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What is a tornado watch? -

A tornado watch is issued when the weather conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes. The watch is to let people know that tornadoes are possible due to the weather conditions.

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What is a tornado warning? -

A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted or that a Doppler radar shows a thunderstorm circulation which can spawn a tornado. 

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What is a tornado emergency? -

A tornado emergency is the National Weather Service's highest alert. It is issued when a violent tornado has touched down, and there is a severe threat to human life and property.

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What to do during a tornado watch? - Gather family members and pets -

If a tornado watch has been issued, gather your family and pets nearby to ensure everyone can get to a safe location if required. 

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Tune into the news -

Turn into a news station on the TV or radio to keep updated on the situation.

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Designate a safety area in your home -

Choose an area that is low to the earth, away from windows, and near or against structural or underground walls. These include cellars, basements, and interior bathrooms.

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Charge your phone -

Ensure your phone is charged, as this will allow you to stay up to date with news reports should you move to a safety area without a TV or radio.

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Create an emergency kit -

Create an emergency kit with things you'll need if you have to shelter or evacuate your home. The kit should include items like food, water, and any necessary medications.

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What should you do during a tornado warning? - Take shelter -

If a tornado warning has been issued, take shelter in your predetermined safe space. Use your cell phone to stay up to date with the news until the warning has been lifted. 

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What if you cannot make it to your safe space? -

If you're unable to make it to your predetermined safe space, find shelter under a heavy piece of furniture such as a dining table.

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What if you are driving during a tornado warning? -

If you are driving when a tornado warning is issued, find a nearby structure to shelter in. Try to avoid sheltering in an underpass as they can act as wind tunnels during tornadoes.

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What if you are outside during a tornado warning? -

If a tornado warning is issued while you're outside, seek shelter in a nearby structure or lie face down in a low area, such as a ditch, and protect your head.

Sources: (National Geographic) (NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory) (National Weather Service)

See also: In pictures: rare and unusual weather phenomena

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