answersLogoWhite

0

The formation of tornadoes is complicated.

First, a condition called wind shear, in which the speed or direction of the wind changes with altitude. If the shear is strong enough it can essentially tilt a thunderstorm, this separates the updraft and downdraft of the thunderstorm, preventing them from interfering with one another. This allows the storm to become stronger and last longer.

Additionally, if the wind shear is strong enough it can start the air rolling in what is called horizontal vorticity. This horizontal vorticity can then be turned vertical by a thunderstorm's updraft. When this happens, the thunderstorm may start rotating. The rotation is especially strong in an updraft called a mesocyclone. If the storm intensifies rapidly enough, a relatively warm downdraft called a rear-flank downdraft or RFD can wrap around the bottom part of the mesocyclone. This can then tighten and intensify its rotation and bring it down to the ground to produce a tornado.

Tornadoes are most likely to form in a region called Tornado Alley in the central United States. This region stretches from Texas to South Dakota and into Iowa.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

When are tornadoes most likely to happen in Kansas?

During the spring. The most active month for tornadoes in Kansas is May.


Where are tornadoes likely to happen per year?

most rural areas


Where in North Carolina are tornadoes most likely to happen?

Tornadoes appear to be most common in the eastern and central portions of North Carolina.


What time of year are tornadoes most likely to occur?

Tornadoes are most likely to occur in the spring and early summer months, typically between March and June. This is when weather conditions are most conducive for the formation of tornadoes, such as warm, moist air colliding with cool, dry air.


When do you have the most tornadoes the most?

Most tornadoes happen in spring and summer


When do most tornadoes happen in the US?

Most tornadoes in the U.S. happen in spring and early summer.


What time of year are you most likely to see a tornado?

Tornadoes can occur any time of year but it is most likely to happen during a thundery and harsh spring.


Do most tornadoes happen in spring or fall?

Tornadoes happen in all seasons but are most common in the spring.


What month is the most likely to have the most tornadoes?

May is the most likely.


What time are tornadoes most likely to occur?

Tornadoes are most likely to occur in the late afternoon and earl evening.


Which month is a tornado most likely to happen in Tennessee?

Tornadoes are most likely to occur in Tennessee during the spring and early summer months, especially in April and May. These months typically have the right conditions for severe weather to form, increasing the likelihood of tornadoes.


Do tornadoes travel through water?

They can, but most tornadoes happen on land.