Tornadoes

How do tornadoes form and how powerful can they get?

An engaging exploration of how tornadoes form, how we measure their power, and why debunking safety myths is crucial for survival.

Check your understanding

1. What is the name of the powerful thunderstorm that creates most tornadoes?
- A. Supercell
- B. Hurricane
- C. Rainstorm
- D. Funnel cloud
2. What is the official name of the scale used to measure tornado damage?
- A. The Richter Scale
- B. The Enhanced Fujita Scale
- C. The Tornado Rating Chart
- D. The Wind Speed Gauge
3. Which action happens right before a tornado officially touches the ground?
- A. The air cools down significantly
- B. The rain completely stops
- C. The rotating column of air tightens and stretches downward
- D. The wind starts blowing in only one direction
4. What is another name people use for a tornado?
- A. A gust
- B. A breeze
- C. A tremor
- D. A twister

1. Why is it dangerous to hide under a highway overpass during a tornado?
- A. Because wind speeds can increase in the narrow space
- B. Because the bridge might fall down
- C. Because you might get stuck in traffic
- D. Because it is too dark to see
2. What is the truth about the myth that you should open windows during a tornado?
- A. It helps balance the heat
- B. It prevents the house from exploding
- C. You should never open windows because it wastes time better spent finding shelter
- D. Opening windows helps you see the tornado coming
3. If you live near a river or a mountain, can a tornado affect you?
- A. No, tornadoes cannot cross water
- B. No, mountains protect you from tornadoes
- C. Yes, tornadoes can travel over hills and across water
- D. Only if the tornado is very weak
4. An EF5 tornado is considered the most dangerous because:
- A. It has the lowest wind speeds
- B. It causes only minor damage to roofs
- C. It lasts for only a few seconds
- D. It has winds over 166 mph and can level houses

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