Tornadoes are rapidly rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. They can cause significant destruction, with winds that can exceed 300 miles per hour. Tornadoes are classified into categories based on their intensity, with the Enhanced Fujita Scale being the most commonly used system. These natural phenomena typically form in conditions of severe weather, particularly during spring and summer months in the United States. Areas known as 'Tornado Alley' are particularly prone to these storms. Understanding tornadoes is crucial for safety and preparedness in affected regions.