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Science Weather Projects on Tornadoes

Tornadoes form during storm events, developing into rotating funnel clouds with wind speeds that can reach in excess of 192 miles an hour in the center. When the spinning formations drop to the earth's surface, they can cause great damage. Tornadoes rotate counter-clockwise, generally last less than an hour and can cover about 18 miles traveling in a northeasterly direction. Predicting tornadoes, however, is an evolving science.

Investigating the Fujita-Pearson Scale
- Conduct an Internet investigation to locate copies of the Fujita-Pearson Scale for tornado damage and the Saffir-Simpson scale for measuring hurricanes. Observe how both scales break their respective storms into categories based on wind speed and damage potential. Notice that tornadoes can reach greater wind speeds than hurricanes. Determine how the scales are similar, how they differ, and how they can be used to improve building codes to reduce or eliminate tornado damage.
Tornado Alley Investigation
- Perform a computer investigation to locate "Tornado Alley" state maps, and tornado data for all 50 states for the previous two years. Make a data table to compare tornado activity for all 50 states. List the Tornado Alley states, then the remaining states in the first column. Tornado Alley generally covers the states in the Midwest and Plains, but in the right conditions tornadoes can strike almost anywhere.
  
  List tornadoes for the previous year in the second column and for two years earlier in the third column. Examine the data to determine if the Tornado Alley states receive more tornadoes than the other states. Create a Tornado Alley states data table, with the states listed in the first column and columns for each tornado category on the Fujita-Pearson Scale. Catalog tornado counts that occurred in each state in each category in the prior year. Compare the results to determine which Tornado Alley state had the most or fewest tornadoes for each category. Discuss what the data means for tornado predictions and preparations.
Tornado in a Jar
- Tornadoes can be visualized by pouring water into clear jar until it is about 3/4 full, then adding 2 tbsp. dishwashing liquid and a marble. Twist the lid on tightly and swirl the jar. Observe the vortex formation. Compare the tornado in a jar with real life tornadoes in size and "wind" speeds.
Tornado Warnings, Preparedness and Cleanup
- Split the class into four groups to perform separate computer investigations. The first group will locate information about tornado watches and warnings, the second group will investigate signs of impending tornadoes, the third will look into tornado preparedness and the fourth will find ways to help the community with cleanup after a tornado. Once the information has been gathered, have the class come together to discuss weather conditions that create tornadoes. Then have the class set up a classroom tornado preparedness plan and discuss ways they can help their community after a tornado strikes.

Nature