Tornadoes, also known as twisters, are some of the most powerful and destructive forces in nature. In this article, we will learn about how tornadoes work, the dangers they bring, and what you should do if you ever find yourself near one.
Tornadoes are spinning columns of air that stretch from a storm cloud down to the ground. They can be very strong and can destroy almost anything in their path. This makes us wonder: what would happen if you got caught in a tornado?
If you are near a tornado, you need to act quickly. There is not much time to find a safe place. If the building you are in is not strong enough, the tornado’s winds, which can be faster than 400 kilometers per hour (about 250 miles per hour), might lift you into the air.
Tornadoes can become very wide, sometimes up to five kilometers across. They can lift heavy things like trees, cars, and even animals. If you are caught in a tornado, you might get hit by flying debris, which can cause serious injuries.
Inside a tornado, the conditions are extreme. It can be 15 to 20 degrees colder than outside, and the air is thinner, like being on a high mountain. This can make you feel dizzy or even cause you to faint in just a few minutes.
Even though tornadoes are scary, some people have survived being caught in one without getting badly hurt. However, it’s important to know that most people who encounter tornadoes do get seriously injured.
Because tornadoes are so dangerous, it’s important to be prepared:
Did you know that three out of four tornadoes happen in the United States? About 800 tornadoes are reported each year in the U.S. alone!
Tornadoes are powerful natural events that can cause a lot of damage. By understanding how they work and knowing what to do, you can increase your chances of staying safe. Always stay informed, find shelter, and put safety first to protect yourself from these incredible forces of nature.
Create Your Own Tornado in a Bottle: Gather two plastic bottles, water, and some glitter or small bits of paper. Fill one bottle with water and add the glitter or paper. Tape the two bottles together at the necks, with the full bottle on top. Swirl the bottle in a circular motion and watch as a mini tornado forms inside! Discuss with your friends or family how this small tornado is similar to real tornadoes and what makes them different.
Tornado Safety Role Play: With your family or classmates, act out what you would do if a tornado warning was issued. Practice finding a safe spot in your home or school, like a basement or a room without windows. Discuss why these places are safer and what items you might want to have with you, like a flashlight or a radio.
Weather Watcher Challenge: Become a weather watcher for a week! Keep a daily journal of the weather conditions in your area. Note any changes in the sky, wind, or temperature. At the end of the week, discuss how these observations could help you predict if a tornado might form. What signs would you look for?
