Description:

A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm cloud to the ground. It is one of the most violent weather phenomena on Earth. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

🔄 How a Tornado Forms:

Thunderstorm Formation – Tornadoes usually form from powerful thunderstorms, especially supercells, which have a deep rotating updraft called a mesocyclone.

Wind Shear – Changes in wind speed and direction at different altitudes create horizontal rotation in the atmosphere.

Updraft Tilt – Rising air within a storm tilts the rotating air vertically.

Tornado Touchdown – If this rotation strengthens and stretches downward, it can become a visible funnel cloud. When it touches the ground, it's officially a tornado.

⚠️ Characteristics:

Wind Speeds: Ranges from 65 mph to over 200 mph.

Size: Can vary from a few meters to over 2 kilometers wide.

Duration: Typically a few minutes, but some last over an hour.

Path: Usually a few kilometers long but can exceed 100 km in rare cases.

❌ Not to Be Confused With:

Dust Devil: A small, short-lived whirlwind that forms in dry, sunny conditions—not connected to a cloud.

Hurricane: A large-scale tropical cyclone forming over warm ocean waters; far broader and longer-lasting than tornadoes.