tornado
bernt
how do tornados form
. They are usually the extreme result of a supercell thunderstorm. During the storm cold air and warm air combine in a set pattern: the cold air drops as the warm air rises. The warm air eventually twists into a spiral and forms the funnel cloud that we all associate with a tornado.
where does it happen
The conditions that lead to the formation of tornadoes are most often met in the central and southern U.S., where warm, humid air from the Gulf of Mexico collides with cool, dry air from the Rockies and Canada. This area, dubbed "tornado alley," extends roughly from the Rocky Mountains to the Appalachians, and from Iowa and Nebraska to the Gulf of Mexico. Tornadoes can also occur elsewhere, though, including all U.S. states, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
how often does it happen
On average, there are 1000 tornadoes in the U.S. each year. However there are occasional years that do not come near that average. For example, 2005 saw around 1250 tornadoes. According to the number of tornadoes that have already occurred this year, 2008 looks to be a record breaking year for the number of tornadoes. However this is not for certain. An abnormally active winter does not necessarily mean an abnormally active spring.
how can you prepare for your weather
run for my life
Event Information
tornado
When?
Friday, May 31, 2013, 03:30 PM
Where?