Tornadoes are violent, rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. They are characterized by their:
* Vertical orientation: They spin vertically, unlike other wind phenomena like hurricanes, which are horizontal.
* High wind speeds: Tornadoes can have wind speeds exceeding 300 mph (480 km/h).
* Funnel shape: The rotating column of air often has a funnel shape.
* Destructive power: Tornadoes can cause significant damage to buildings, trees, and other structures.
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