This chapter examines tornadoes. Tornadoes occur in thunderstorms, so tornadoes are an appropriate topic after the last chapter. We will look at two types of processes for tornadoes to form: (1) within supercells and (2) non-supercell formation. The strongest tornadoes occur within supercell thunderstorms.

Hurricanes will then be covered. Hurricanes are the largest storms on our planet. They originate in the tropics and subtropics during the summer and fall months. We will examine their formation, structure, classification, decay, and the hazards associated with them. Hurricanes can wreak widespread devastation over multiple days.

Chapter Objectives:

1. Understand how supercell and non-supercell tornadoes form.

2. Describe the tornado damage scale.

3. Describe the steps in the formation of hurricanes.

4. Describe the hurricane damage scale.

5. Describe how hurricanes cause destruction and fatalities.