Severe Weather

Front

What type of cloud does a tornado begin as?

Back

A tornado begins as a funnel cloud that pokes through the bottom of a cumulonimbus cloud.

Front

What is an intense storm with strong winds, heavy rain, lightning, and thunder called?

Back

A thunderstorm.

Front

What generates winds in the atmosphere?

Back

Winds are generated when air flows from a high pressure area into a low pressure area.

Front

Are a funnel cloud and a tornado the same?

Back

False.

Front

What type of pressure systems do thunderstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes form at?

Back

Low pressure systems.

Front

What is a tornado?

Back

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

Front

What is a hurricane?

Back

A hurricane is a large, organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined circulation pattern, typically forming over warm ocean waters.

Front

What is the difference between a funnel cloud and a tornado?

Back

A funnel cloud is a rotating column of air that does not reach the ground, while a tornado is a funnel cloud that has made contact with the ground.

Front

What conditions are necessary for thunderstorms to develop?

Back

Thunderstorms develop in low pressure systems where warm, moist air rises quickly.

Front

What is the main characteristic of a severe thunderstorm?

Back

Severe thunderstorms can produce heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and tornadoes.