Fortunately, all of the tornadoes were weak and short-lived. Yes, Virginia tornadoes can be as deadly as those which roam the plains and midwest. A tornado is defined as a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. The most violent tornadoes are capable of tremendous destruction with wind speeds of 250 mph or more. Damage paths can be a mile wide and more than 50 miles long.
Tornadoes can and do occur in Virginia at any time of the year.
However, the months of May, June, August and September are the peak months for tornado occurrence. Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 and 9 p.m., but again, can occur at all hours of the day or night. The average tornado moves from the southwest to the northeast at speeds in the 20 to 40 mph range, but may vary in forward speed from nearly stationary to 70 mph. One way to better prepare yourself is to know the difference between a watch and a warning. Keep an eye to the sky and listen to NOAA weather radio or local TV and radio, and be prepared to take action should a warning be issued for your area.