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Tornadoes
Tornado Definition and Characteristics: A tornado is a violently
rotating column of air which comes in contact with the ground. Tornadoes vary
greatly in size, intensity, and appearance. The average movement of a tornado
is 30 mph, but speeds of 70 mph have been reported. Wind speeds of between 100
to over 300 mph are possible. The width of a tornado may range from a few yards
to over a mile; the path of a tornado may range from a few hundred yards to
hundreds of miles.
Often, a tornado is located on the edge of the updraft, next to air that's coming
down from the thunderstorm with falling rain or hail. This is why a burst of
heavy rain or hail sometimes announces a tornado's arrival. The center of the
tornado's vortex is a low-pressure area. As air rushes into the vortex, its
pressure lowers, which cools the air. Cooling condenses water vapor in the air
into the tornado's familiar funnel-shaped cloud. As the swirling winds pick
up dust, dirt, and debris from the ground, the funnel turns even darker. Tornadoes
that pick up little dirt can retain their white, cloud coloration. Some tornadoes
have taken on a red hue by picking up red dirt. Often tornadoes become wrapped
in rain showers, which can make it difficult to see.
Tornado Watch - Conditions are favorable for the development
of severe thunderstorms with the potential of tornadoes.
Tornado Warning - Tornado has been sighted or detected on radar.
TAKE SHELTER IMMEDIATELY. Listen
to radio, television, or weather-alert radios for National Weather Service bulletins.
Weather-alert radios receive broadcasts and alerts from the Madison National
Weather Service and are available at most electronics dealers. Note: Take a
portable radio and flashlight with you when taking shelter.
Tornado Safety Tips:
Most tornado damage is caused by violent winds. Many injuries and deaths result
from flying debris. When a tornado threatens, your immediate action can save
your life.
STAY AWAY FROM WINDOWS, DOORS AND OUTSIDE WALLS. PROTECT
YOUR HEAD
- In homes and small buildings, go to the basement or to an interior part on the lowest level - closets, bathrooms or interior halls. Get under something sturdy. Do not leave the building until the storm has passed.
- In schools, nursing homes, hospitals, factories, and shopping centers, go to pre-designated shelter areas. Interior hallways on the lowest floor are usually best. Avoid auditoriums, gymnasiums, or other structures with wide, free span roofs.
- In high-rise buildings, go to interior small rooms or hallways.
- In vehicles or mobile homes, leave them and go to a substantial structure. If there is no shelter nearby, lie flat in the nearest ditch, ravine, or culvert with your hands shielding your head. In open country, lie flat in the nearest ditch or ravine with your hands shielding your head.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Tornado Information
- National Weather Service Tornado Information and Safety Tips
- Red Cross Tornado Preparedness Guide
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