What are tornadoes and their hazards?
Tornadoes are rapidly rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. They are often referred to as twisters or cyclones. Tornadoes can cause severe damage and pose significant hazards to both life and property. Some common hazards associated with tornadoes include:
1. High winds: Tornadoes are characterized by extremely high wind speeds that can reach up to 300 miles per hour. These strong winds can cause significant damage to buildings, uproot trees, and toss debris into the air.
2. Flying debris: Tornadoes can pick up and hurl debris at high speeds, posing a serious threat to anything in their path. This flying debris can cause injuries or fatalities to individuals in the tornado's vicinity.
3. Damage to structures: Tornadoes can destroy buildings, homes, and infrastructure in a matter of seconds. The intense winds can rip roofs off buildings, collapse walls, and shatter windows.
4. Lightning and hail: Tornadoes are often accompanied by lightning and hail, which can further increase the risks to life and property. Lightning strikes can cause fires, while large hailstones can cause damage to cars and buildings.
5. Flooding: Tornadoes can also produce heavy rainfall that can lead to flash flooding in affected areas. This flooding can cause additional damage and pose a threat to residents who may be trapped in their homes or vehicles.
Overall, tornadoes are extremely dangerous natural disasters that can have devastating impacts on communities. It is important for individuals to have a plan in place to protect themselves and their loved ones in the event of a tornado.