How does the Fujita scale measure tornadoes?

Answer 1

The Fujita scale measures tornadoes according to the damage they inflict on objects on the ground. An estimated wind speed is attached to each rating, but it is the observed damage that classifies a tornado according to the Fujita scale.

An F0 tornado causes light damage; it may snap branches from trees or uproot trees with shallow roots, or cause damage to chimneys or signboards.

An F1 tornado causes moderate damage; it may peel surfaces off roofs or push mobile homes off their foundations, or push moving cars from the road.

An F2 tornado causes significant damage; roofs may be torn from frame houses and mobile homes may be demolished, or large trees may be uprooted or snapped. F2 tornadoes will also generate light-object missiles.

An F3 tornado causes severe damage; roofs and some walls may be torn off of well-constructed homes, trains may be overturned, most trees will be uprooted, or heavy cars lifted from the ground and thrown a good distance.

An F4 tornado causes devastating damage; well-constructed houses may be razed completely, structures with weak foundations may be blown away, and large missiles will be generated.

An F5 tornado causes incredible damage; strong frame houses may be lifted from their foundations and carried considerable distances, automobile-sized missiles can fly through the air, bark may be stripped from trees, or steel reinforced concrete structures badly damaged.

Answer 2

The Fujita scale measures tornadoes based on the extent of damage they cause to structures and vegetation. It categorizes tornado intensity from F0 (weakest) to F5 (strongest) based on the estimated wind speeds and the level of destruction observed. The scale helps meteorologists and emergency responders assess the impact of tornadoes and warn communities accordingly.