Understanding the Fujita Scale

The Fujita Scale, also known as the Fujita-Pearson Scale, is a system used to classify tornadoes based on the damage they cause. Developed by renowned meteorologist Dr. Tetsuya Fujita in collaboration with Allen Pearson, the scale ranges from F0 to F5, with F0 being the weakest and F5 being the most destructive.

So, what exactly is classified on the Fujita Scale? The scale categorizes tornadoes based on the estimated wind speeds and the resulting damage they cause. Here is a breakdown of what each classification entails:

• F0 (40-72 mph): These tornadoes cause light damage, such as breaking tree branches and damaging chimneys.
• F1 (73-112 mph): Tornadoes in this category are considered moderate and can result in broken windows and overturned mobile homes.
• F2 (113-157 mph): Significant damage can occur with F2 tornadoes, including roofs being torn off houses and mobile homes being completely destroyed.
• F3 (158-206 mph): Severe damage is expected with F3 tornadoes, with well-built houses being severely damaged or destroyed.
• F4 (207-260 mph): Devastating damage is common with F4 tornadoes, including the leveling of well-built houses and the uprooting of trees.
• F5 (261-318 mph): The most intense classification, F5 tornadoes cause incredible damage, such as sweeping homes off their foundations and debarking trees.

By classifying tornadoes on the Fujita Scale, meteorologists and emergency responders can better understand the potential impact of a tornado and issue appropriate warnings to keep people safe. The scale helps to provide a standardized way of communicating the severity of a tornado and its potential for destruction.

Next time you hear about a tornado being classified on the Fujita Scale, you'll have a better understanding of what each classification means and the kind of damage it can cause. Stay informed, stay safe, and be prepared for severe weather events by knowing the classifications on the Fujita Scale.

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