What are tornadoes? Tornadoes are one of the most dangerous storms on Earth.  They cause about 400 million dollars of damage each year.  They rated on a scale of EF0-EF5 or Enhanced Fujita scale.  This article discusses facts about tornadoes, preparing for one, and where they commonly take place.

A tornado is a violent rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. The thunderstorms called supercells first form a funnel cloud that will then form into a tornado.  The winds from a tornado can range from 40 mph – 318 mph.  The scale that tornadoes are ranked on is called the Enhanced Fujita scale EF0-EF5. EF2 is when tornadoes become significantly dangerous.  Tornadoes only really occur in the U.S. although they could occur in other parts of the world.  

 On average, around 1,000 tornadoes are reported to occur every year.  Very few of these tornadoes are EF4 or higher.  There is one specific place in the United States that has the most tornadoes and it is called Tornado Alley.  This area is around the area of Oklahoma.  This is because of the warm air coming from the West and the cold air coming from the East that causes strong storms therefore creating tornadoes.  Tornadoes are very rare where we live though so there is no reason for you to worry about one ever occurring.  

What are some things that you can do to prepare for a tornado?  If you are inside, you should go to your basement which is the safest place.  If you do not have a basement go to the first floor and find a room with no windows and stay in there.  You want to make sure to stay away from any windows or doors.  Flying debris is one of the main reasons why people die during these storms.  You should use your arms to cover your neck and head.  If you are in a car do not go near or under an overpass.  You should go to a flat area of land or a place that has a small dip in land and lie down flat.

I hope that you learned something about tornadoes in my article. These are some facts and tips about tornadoes.  Tornadoes can be treacherous if not prepared. 

By: Sofia Matos