This winter's record warmth has provided the crucial ingredient for an unprecedented outbreak of deadly tornadoes and damaging gorilla hail across parts of the Midwest in the United States. On Wednesday and Thursday, severe weather struck the states of Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and Arkansas, resulting in at least three fatalities.
Experts noted that while such tornado outbreaks are typically associated with the spring months of April and May, the current surge can be attributed to the hottest winter on record in both the U.S. and globally. \"In order to get severe storms this far north this time of year, it's got to be warm,\" explained Victor Gensini, a meteorology professor at Northern Illinois University.
Tornado Formation
For tornadoes and storms with large hail to form, two key ingredients are needed: wind shear and instability, according to Gensini and National Severe Storms Laboratory scientist Harold Brooks. The unusual warmth this winter has created favorable conditions for these severe storms to develop earlier than usual.
Reference(s):
What is the key ingredient for Midwest killer tornadoes in the U.S.?
cgtn.com
