The most distinctive part of a tornado is the funnel. In this funnel the winds spin in a counterclockwise direction and can reach speeds of 200 miles per hour. Most tornadoes form along a front between cool, dry air from the north and warm, humid air from the Gulf of Mexico. Some tornadoes may strike the earth, withdraw into the dark clouds above, and then dip down and strike the earth again. A tornado that occurs over a lake or ocean is called a waterspout.
Most tornadoes occur in the United States.
Although tornadoes can strike at any time, they mostly occur in spring or early summer. If weather look threatening, always listen for warnings. If warnings are issued, go to an interior room on the lowest floor of your building. If you are in a car, leave the car in lie face down in a ditch or other depression.