Tornadoes can strike very quickly, and often without much warning. Contrary to popular belief, they are not always so easy to see, as they are near transparent when they are first formed. After all, a tornado is composed primarily, or wind! What gives them the dark appearance we associate with tornadoes is actually dust and debris it picks up.

• While a tornado can move in any direction, they usually travel Southwest to Northeast.
• Tornadoes move forward at any speed between stationary to 70 MPH, but usually move at 30 MPH.
• Tornadoes usually occur between 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Tornadoes usually occur east of the Rocky Mountains, and usually during spring and summer.
• Peak season in southern states is March through May, and in northern states, late spring to early summer.
• Tornadoes are often formed by tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
• Tornadoes can form over water. When this happens they are called waterspouts.

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Be sure to read our article on what to do, should a tornado strike without warning.