The Terrifying Truth About Tornados

Tornado

What is a Tornado?

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air that extends from the base of a thunderstorm cloud to the ground. It is a dangerous and destructive force of nature that can cause widespread damage and loss of life.

How Do Tornados Form?

Tornadoes form when warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico meets cold, dry air from the north. The warm air rises, creating an area of low pressure. The cold air rushes in to fill the void, creating an updraft. The updraft causes the air to spin, and if the conditions are right, a tornado can form.

The Fujita Scale

The Fujita scale is used to rate the intensity of tornadoes. The scale ranges from F0 to F5, with F5 being the most intense.

* F0 Weak tornado with winds up to 72 mph
* F1 Weak tornado with winds up to 112 mph
* F2 Strong tornado with winds up to 158 mph
* F3 Severe tornado with winds up to 206 mph
* F4 Devastating tornado with winds up to 260 mph
* F5 Incredible tornado with winds up to 318 mph

Tornado Safety

There are a number of things you can do to stay safe during a tornado:

* Seek shelter immediately. The best place to take shelter is in a basement or storm cellar. If you don't have access to a basement or storm cellar, go to the lowest level of your home and find an interior room without windows.
* Get under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a bed or a table.
* Cover your head and neck with your arms and a blanket.
* Stay away from windows.

Tornado Warning

When a tornado warning is issued, it is important to take action immediately. Seek shelter in a safe location and stay there until the warning has expired.

Tornado Myths

There are a number of myths about tornadoes that can be dangerous. Here are a few of the most common:

* Myth: Tornadoes only happen in the Midwest.
* Fact: Tornadoes can happen anywhere in the United States.
* Myth: You can outrun a tornado.
* Fact: Tornadoes can travel up to 70 mph. You cannot outrun them.
* Myth: Opening windows will help equalize the pressure and prevent your house from exploding.
* Fact: Opening windows will not help equalize the pressure. It will only make your house more vulnerable to damage.