Tornado

A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes are typically characterized by their funnel shape and can vary in size, intensity, and duration. They are formed when warm, moist air near the ground rises and meets cooler, drier air above, creating instability in the atmosphere. This can lead to a condition known as wind shear, where winds at different altitudes blow at varying speeds and directions, contributing to the rotation of air. Tornadoes are measured using the Enhanced Fujita Scale, which categorizes them from EF0 (weak) to EF5 (violent) based on the damage they cause. Tornadoes can be extremely destructive, uprooting trees, demolishing buildings, and posing significant dangers to life and property. They are most commonly associated with severe thunderstorms and occur in various regions around the world, particularly in areas known as “Tornado Alley” in the United States.