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What Are Tornadoes?

Tornadoes are known for their destructive power and the resulting damage they leave behind. In definition, a tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that extends from the cloud base to the ground. The tornado's strength is measured in a system called the Enhanced Fujita Scale. An example of the scale is shown below.                               

 Catagory                                                                                                   

EF0                    65-85 (mph)  

EF1                   86-110 (mph)                              

EF2                  111-135 (mph)  

EF3                  136-165 (mph)  

EF4                  166-200 (mph)  

EF5                  Over 200  (mph)  

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You can identify a tornado by it's funnel, which is actually just condensed moisture within the funnel. Sometimes moisture does not condense in the funnel, making the tornado almost invisible!

 Diagram of a Supercell 

 How Do Tornadoes Form?

Most tornados are found is a special type of storm called a Supercell. In theory, tornadoes can form in any storm, but supercells usually provide the type of enviroment a tornado needs.

A tornado begins to form when conditions are just right. Here are some keys of a Tornadic thunderstorm:

1. Lot's of moisture to supply the thunderstorm.

2 Shear winds. This helps the air rotate because of the shifting  wind patterns.

3. Atmospheric instability. This allows the thunderstorm and it's updrafts to become very strong, giving the tornado a better chance at formation.

If conditions are right, the rotating air will get tilted and, for whatever reason, begin descending towards the ground. The rotation air causes a low pressure area to form inside the funnel, resulting in the infamous sucking noise we associate with tornadoes. Once the funnel touches the ground, it is considered a tornado. While it is on the ground, the tornado can be very dangerous to homes, property, and people. 

Why do tornadoes come in different colors?

 Tornadoes come in a variety of different shapes sizes, and colors. Why do they, you ask? Here's a brief explaination.

 Color

A tornado's color is most often determined by the type of substance the funnel is sucking in. In example, if the tornado were to run over a humongous pile of green dirt, then for the moment for two it is over the pile, the tornado would turn partially green. So over orange oklahoma dirt, the tornado looks more red, while over sand, it looks more yellow! 

What are some signs of a tornado?

•   Loud roaring (like a freight train)
•   Ears popping 
•   Rapidly shifting wind
•   Sudden hail or rain
•   A Tornado Warning is issued for your area 
•   A Tornado Watch is issued for your area

 Thanks to NOAA and the NWS for  the information.