Like many of you, I noticed the tornado warning that was issued last night. Some of you have been asking me what the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning is. I will do my best to answer that here.
A tornado watch means, "watch out". It means that all the ingredients are in place for a tornado to happen. Scientists that study weather, called meteorologists and atmospheric scientists, are still trying to figure out what exactly causes a tornado to form. To summarize, a watch means a tornado may happen, but it may not. SO WATCH OUT!!!!!!!
A tornado warning means two things:
1. A tornado has been spotted and is in the area.
2. A radar has detected a "tornado signature".
During a tornado warning find shelter. Many of you have said you don't know where to go in case of a tornado. The best place to go is in a tornado cellar, but not many people have one. If, like most of us, you don't have a cellar, then go to the center most room or closet in your house. This is generally a bathroom or a closet. Put as many walls between you and your house's windows as possible. Try to have a radio or cell phone with you so that you can make sure it is okay to come out.
Tornadoes generally happen in the spring and early summer. However, they can happen anytime. We will talk much more in depth about weather this year. I can't wait!!!!
For more information on what a "tornado signature" is I have attached a link that will take you to an article that describes this. Another way of saying "tornado signature" is "hook echo". Thanks for reading! Remember, stay smart and you will stay safe!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hook_echo
Here is one about tornadoes in general!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tornado
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