Severe Weather Test

Front

What is Tornado Alley?

Back

A region in the middle states of the United States where tornadoes are most frequent.

Front

What does a meteorologist do?

Back

A meteorologist studies the Earth's atmosphere and monitors and forecasts the weather.

Front

Where do the sun's rays strike most directly?

Back

At the equator.

Front

What is air pressure?

Back

Air has weight and it is being pulled toward the Earth by gravity, pushing against things.

Front

What is a tornado?

Back

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

Front

What conditions are necessary for tornado formation?

Back

Warm, moist air at the surface and cool, dry air above.

Front

What scale is used to measure tornado intensity?

Back

The Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale.

Front

What is severe weather?

Back

Weather that poses a threat to life or property, including tornadoes, hurricanes, and thunderstorms.

Front

What is the difference between a watch and a warning?

Back

A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather; a warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent.

Front

What is a funnel cloud?

Back

A rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm but does not reach the ground.