What is a Rainbow Tornado?

A rainbow tornado exemplifies an extraordinary display of beauty and power in nature. This captivating occurrence is rare and usually leaves the world in surprise. The phenomenon happens when two natural forces converge: a rainbow and a tornado. Although tornadoes and rainbows are distinct meteorological phenomena, there is some science behind the encounter of rainbow tornadoes. And so in this blog post, let’s look at the question of what is a Rainbow Tornado, and why these strange yet beautiful monsters form and how they do so. Subscribe to our blog for additional details and information on all things Tornadoes.

The Science of Tornadoes, Just What is a Rainbow Tornado?

Also known as cyclones, tornadoes are the most violent storms of nature. It is featured by a twisting and funnel-like cloud descending towards the ground from the sky. The process of its formation involves a complex meteorological process. It is a by-product of severe thunderstorms and is among Earth’s hazardous and powerful natural forces. Atmospheric differences, where the warm and moist air collides with cool and dry air, cause a tornado. Wind shear is another common cause of tornadoes. It involves a change in wind direction and speed, which can lead to the rotation of thunderstorms. Tornadoes have a life span because they last for a period between a few seconds to several hours.

The Science of Rainbows

Rainbows are optical and meteorological conditions and happen when sunlight is refracted and reflected inside atmospheric water droplets. The refraction of light occurs because light naturally slows down during the transformation of a denser medium (Water) to a less dense medium (Air). Light is reflected internally and refracted many times within the water droplets before exiting. The many different colors of a rainbow are caused by light dispersion. Rainbows are common during rain showers alongside sunlight. Its appearance is relative to the size of water droplets, sunlight angle, and the observer’s position from the sunlight.

Here is Some information on one of the most recent Rainbow Tornadoes we’ve seen thus far: https://www.washingtonpost.com/weather/2021/04/26/tornado-rainbow-texas/

I guess Texas truly is the peak of Tornado Alley!

The Science of Rainbow Tornado

A rainbow tornado is rare and happens when a violent and destructive collision of air masses (Tornado) intersects with a colorful light arc formed after refraction and dispersion of sunlight in the atmosphere through water droplets. Three main ideal conditions have to occur to satisfy the occurrence of a rainbow tornado. They include sunlight penetration, water droplets from rainfall or other precipitation forms, and observational perspective. Sunlight needs to pass through the atmosphere surrounding the tornado. It can happen when a storm cloud breaks or the tornado is on the storm system’s edge. There must be precipitation or rainfall water droplets, which serve as a medium in which sunlight refracts to form a rainbow. Observers must be in the correct position and angle relative to the tornado, water droplets, and sunlight to witness the intersection causing a rainbow tornado. Observational perspective is essential because rainbow tornadoes are only visible at specified vantage points and last for a short period.

Although it is an infrequent occurrence, rainbow tornado testifies to the surprising complexities of the Earth’s weather systems. It signified the special meeting of two powerful natural phenomena. Each of the phenomena has unique causes leading to their formation. While a rainbow does not pose any danger in seeing or being around it, a tornado poses dangers to human life and results in massive destruction of property.

Sources:

https://weather.com/safety/winter/news/2019-10-15-how-handle-driving-black-ice

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