Ask and Answer Questions Assessment

Front

What is a tornado?

Back

A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground, often causing destruction.

Front

What causes tornadoes?

Back

Tornadoes are caused by severe thunderstorms when warm, moist air meets cool, dry air, creating instability in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the Fujita Scale?

Back

The Fujita Scale is a system used to rate the intensity of tornadoes based on the damage they cause.

Front

What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?

Back

A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.

Front

What types of damage can tornado winds do?

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Tornado winds can flatten buildings, uproot trees, and throw debris, causing significant destruction.

Front

What is the typical size of a tornado?

Back

Tornadoes can vary in size, but they are usually about 250 feet wide, although some can be over a mile wide.

Front

What is the average lifespan of a tornado?

Back

Most tornadoes last less than 10 minutes, but some can persist for over an hour.

Front

What safety measures should be taken during a tornado?

Back

Seek shelter in a sturdy building, preferably in a basement or an interior room away from windows.

Front

What is the role of meteorologists in tornado prediction?

Back

Meteorologists use radar and weather models to predict tornado formation and issue warnings to keep people safe.

Front

What is the significance of the Enhanced Fujita Scale?

Back

The Enhanced Fujita Scale rates tornadoes from EF0 to EF5 based on estimated wind speeds and damage.