When Tornadoes Touch Down

For years, people in "Tornado Alley" were the ones who had to worry most about tornadoes occurring near their homes. However, as climate change occurs, tornadoes have become more common around the United States. Tornado prediction and tracking has gotten increasingly better, too. Readers learn how tornadoes happen, how they are measured, and what to do if a tornado watch or warning is issued. Real-life stories of tornado devastation, such as those that occurred in Joplin, Mississippi, in 2011, emphasize how serious this weather event can be. Full-color photographs and sidebars offer additional perspectives about tornado chasing, destruction, and preparation.