TORNADOES

Tornadoes are a natural disaster that effect the environment of a society. They are a rotating column of air which touches the earth and the clouds. They are a result of high winds forming together in a violent motion. Tornadoes come in many sizes but normally are in the shape of a condensation funnel. Tornadoes are known to occur on every continent except Antarctica.

Most Tornadoes have the wind speed of 40 mph to 110 mph. They are about 250 feet wide, but it depends on the wind speed and the area in which the tornado is approaching.


What Causes Tornadoes?
Thunderstorms can be cause by cold air moving eastward through an area that is very warm and moist. These types of storms can cause hail, strong winds and tornadoes. Tornadoes occur in the winter and early spring with strong winds in the central States and move east. Large outbreaks come with this type of weather patterns. Usually a tornado comes after tropical storms and hurricanes that move over land.


Tornado Safety:
There are ways to prepare yourself for a tornado.

Before the storm:
You need to have a plan for your family in case there is an emergency. Have drills once a month so your family can practice what to do in the event of a tornado. You should know the area where you live and keep a highway map in your house to follow storm movement. You should buy a weather radio with an alarm system and a backup battery pack to receive warnings.


If the tornado approaches:
Move to a basement if you are in a house or building. If you don't have a basement move into a hall or under a piece of furniture. You should stay away from windows and automobiles. do not try to run away from the tornado in your car, instead get out of it immediately. If you live in a mobile home, abandon it because it isn't a safe place to hide from a tornado.