cool animation of tornado
Going Around in Circles
To scientists who study them, twisters are the most fascinating storms on Earth. Let's say they're right ... and take a gander at the wild, whirling winds.

skinny tornado image
Cimarron County, Oklahoma.
© Greg Stumpf, 1991
Exactly what are tornadoes? (Here's a logical starting point. To continue reading, hit "more" at the bottom of each page.)

Where does a twister get all that energy anyway?

What's the latest word on tornado prediction?

Enough of this scientific mumbo-jumbo. I just want to protect myself when the sirens blare.

How does a twister affect the natural landscape?

Now you're ready for the famous twisted quiz.

I predict that these parties contributed to this edition.


More! The Why Files
NISE/NSF

There are 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 documents. (Glossary | Bibliography)