Tornadoes

A tornado is a violent wind storm characterized by a twisting funnel shaped cloud. It is usually started by a thunderstorm or can be the result of a hurricane. It is produced when cool air overrides a layer of warm air, forcing the warm air to rise rapidly. Tornado season is March through August, although they can actually occur anytime of the year. They tend to occur in the afternoon and evenings. Tornadoes strike with incredible velocity and wind speeds may approach 300 miles per hour. Tornadoes can uproot trees and structures, especially mobile homes. Tornadoes are most destructive when they touch the ground, although they normally only stay on the ground for about 20 minutes. But be aware that a tornado can touch the ground several times in different areas. Tornadoes occur throughout the world but the most devastating and intense tornadoes occur in the United States. Tornadoes produce the most violent winds on earth.

• Tornadoes are violent wind storms blowing in a funnel.
• Tornadoes occur mostly in March through August.
• Tornadoes can blow at a speed of 300 MPH.
• People in mobile homes are at most risk.