Derecho

A derecho is a widespread, long-lived wind storm associated with a band of rapidly moving thunderstorms. It is characterized by damaging straight-line winds that can extend for hundreds of miles. The term "derecho" is Spanish for "straight." Derechos are most common in the United States during the summer months, particularly in the Midwest and Great Plains.

Tornado Alley

Tornado Alley is a region in the central United States that is known for its high frequency of tornadoes. It stretches from Texas to Nebraska and includes parts of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Iowa. The region's unique geography, with its flat terrain, warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico, and cold, dry air from the Rocky Mountains, creates a favorable environment for the formation of tornadoes.

Climate Change

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to a warming planet and changes in weather patterns, including more frequent and intense extreme weather events like tornadoes.

EF Scale

The Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF Scale) is a scale used to rate the intensity of tornadoes based on the damage they cause. It ranges from EF0 (weakest) to EF5 (strongest). The EF Scale replaced the original Fujita Scale in 2007 and incorporates more detailed damage indicators to provide a more accurate assessment of tornado intensity.

Storm Chasing

Storm chasing is the pursuit of severe weather events, particularly tornadoes, for scientific or photographic purposes. Storm chasers often use weather radar and other tools to track storms and position themselves in a safe location to observe and document the events. While storm chasing can be exciting and rewarding, it is also a dangerous activity that requires specialized knowledge and equipment.

National Weather Service

The National Weather Service (NWS) is a federal agency within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that provides weather forecasts, warnings, and other weather-related services to the United States. The NWS operates a network of weather stations and radar systems to monitor weather conditions and issue warnings about severe weather events, including tornadoes.

University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder is a public research university located in Boulder, Colorado. It is known for its strong programs in atmospheric science, oceanography, and other related fields. The university's research on tornadoes and other weather phenomena has contributed significantly to our understanding of these events.

Mayfield, Kentucky

Mayfield, Kentucky, is a city in western Kentucky that was devastated by a powerful tornado in December 2021. The tornado, which was part of a larger outbreak, caused widespread damage and resulted in numerous fatalities. The event highlighted the vulnerability of communities to severe weather events and the importance of preparedness.

Hurricane Ida

Hurricane Ida was a powerful hurricane that made landfall in Louisiana in August 2021. The storm caused significant damage and flooding in the Gulf Coast region and its remnants spawned tornadoes in other parts of the United States, including Pennsylvania.

Twisters

Twisters is a 1996 American disaster film about a group of storm chasers who encounter a series of powerful tornadoes. The film was a box office success and helped to popularize the concept of storm chasing.