A strong tornado generally requires a strong supercell with especially strong rotation. Such storms become stronger if the atmosphere is very unstable, meaning it is very warm and moist in the lower atmosphere and very cold in the upper atmosphere. Rotation comes from wind shear, a condition where wind speed and direction varies with altitude. The wind shear gives rise to horizontally rolling masses of air. The stronger this helicity is the more potential exists for strong tornadoes.
Generally, stronger tornadoes have longer lifespans than weaker tornadoes. Strong tornadoes are typically associated with more intense and organized thunderstorms, which can sustain the conditions necessary for a tornado to persist for a longer period of time. Weaker tornadoes, on the other hand, often form from less stable atmospheric conditions and have shorter durations.
Warm, moist air, such as that found in the tropics is what fuels thunderstorms, and strong thunderstorms are what produce tornadoes. However, tornadoes are more often found in more temperate areas, where colliding air masses can produce even stronger thunderstorms.
Yes, tornadoes have been reported in Hawaii, although they are rare due to the geographical conditions of the islands. Tornadoes in Hawaii are usually weaker and shorter-lived compared to those in mainland areas with more favorable conditions for tornado formation.
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Tornadoes can be associated with hurricanes, particularly in the outer bands of the storm. These tornadoes are typically weaker and shorter-lived compared to traditional tornadoes. The conditions within hurricanes, such as strong winds and a changing weather environment, can sometimes create the necessary conditions for tornado formation.
No, not all supercell thunderstorms cause tornadoes. Supercell thunderstorms are known for their rotating updrafts, which can lead to the formation of tornadoes. However, tornadoes are not always produced, as a combination of atmospheric conditions and other factors are necessary for them to form.
Yes, tornadoes typically form from severe thunderstorms known as supercells. These storms are characterized by rotating updrafts known as mesocyclones, which can produce the conditions necessary for tornado formation. However, not all thunderstorms produce tornadoes.
Yes, tornadoes are often associated with thunderstorms. Thunderstorms provide the necessary conditions for tornado formation, such as strong updrafts and wind shear. Tornadoes typically form within severe thunderstorms.
No. Usually the larger tornadoes are the stronger ones, but not always. There have been a few small but very violent tornadoes as well as large but fairly weak ones.
About 20% of tornadoes are rated as strong (EF2 or stronger).
Yes, tornadoes can form from thunderstorms that develop within large, moisture-rich clouds. The rotation and updrafts within these storm clouds can create the conditions necessary for tornado development.
Tornadoes are generally more dangerous as they are stronger than waterspouts.