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Did you know that tornadoes can reach speeds of 300 miles per hour?
Tornadoes are nature’s most violent storms. A tornado appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground with whirling winds. They may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms within the funnel. Their damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long. More powerful tornadoes have the ability to move large and heavy objects. Most tornadoes move from southwest to northeast, but they can move in any direction or suddenly change their path.
In Colorado, the primary threat of tornadoes is east of the Continental Divide along the Front Range and foothill counties. Most of tornadoes here occur in June, followed by July and May, mainly during afternoon or evening hours.
Despite the risks tornadoes present, everyone can take steps to prepare. Explore the information below to discover how to keep yourself and family safe during a tornado.
References, Resources and More Information:
Windsor, Colorado experienced a tornado and hail storm in May 2008 that caused an estimated $193.5 million in insured losses. It was rated an EF3 tornado ─ wind estimates in the heavily damaged areas were as high as 130 to 150 mph. One person died as a result of trying to outrun the tornado and several injuries were reported.
Cover photo courtesy of Douglas County ─ Lemon Gulch Tornado