A quick survey of debris left behind after a severe weather event is one of the first indicators of what occurred—a tornado or a straight-line wind event, Zontini said.
For example, if trees are snapped in random directions, a tornado likely caused the damage, she explained. However, if trees are knocked over in one direction, it’s likely the damage was caused by straight line winds.
Another indicator of a tornado is debris stuck up in trees. In a straight-line wind event, debris typically stays at ground level, Zontini said.
Determination between the two usually requires a combination of National Weather Service surveys, looking back at radar and collecting eyewitness reports.
It is important to remember that thunderstorms can cause straight-line winds as powerful as tornadoes. Make sure if a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued for your area that you do NOT ignore it. Get inside immediately and seek shelter in an interior room away from windows.
About the Author