tornado

Everyday

1. A tornado is a very strong, spinning column of wind that reaches from a storm cloud down to the ground, shaped like a funnel. tree →
2. Figuratively, a person who moves fast and makes a mess is like a tornado. tree →

In the lessons

In science and geography, tornadoes form in big thunderstorms, especially in the central USA («Tornado Alley»); their winds can destroy houses. In safety lessons: in a tornado warning, go to a basement or a small inside room on the lowest floor, away from windows. Phrases: tornado warning, tornado watch, Tornado Alley.

Examples

• A tornado looks like a spinning funnel. tree →
• The tornado destroyed three barns. tree →
• When the siren sounds, go to the basement. tree →
• Tornadoes happen most often in the USA. tree →
• In The Wizard of Oz, a tornado carries Dorothy's house away. tree →
• Stay away from windows during a tornado. tree →
• My little brother ran through the room like a tornado. tree →
• Scientists chase tornadoes to study them. tree →

Note

Plural: tornadoes (more common) or tornados. A tornado is not a hurricane: a hurricane is a huge storm over the ocean hundreds of kilometres wide; a tornado is narrow and forms over land. Also called a twister. A watch means one could happen; a warning means one is happening or about to.