tornado outbreak

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air that develops within a thunderstorm and touches the ground. These powerful weather events are most common in the spring and summer months.1

Tornado Formation and Outbreaks

Tornadoes typically form within supercell thunderstorms, which are a type of severe thunderstorm. The formation process involves the concentration of atmospheric rotation, or spin, into a swirling column of air by strong updrafts.23

A tornado outbreak occurs when multiple tornadoes form over a region, often from thunderstorms associated with the same weather system. Outbreaks are categorized by the number of tornadoes and the geographical area affected. The most dangerous are national outbreaks, which can impact many states and are most common in March and April. The Super Outbreak of April 3-4, 1974, is one of the largest recorded, producing 148 tornadoes.45

Tornado Safety

The primary dangers from tornadoes are high winds and flying debris. Seeking shelter in a basement, under a sturdy table, or in an interior room away from windows is crucial. Mobile homes offer little protection and residents should evacuate to sturdier buildings or ditches at the first sign of tornadic activity. If caught outdoors, staying low to the ground in a ditch or culvert is advised.6