🌪️Over 98% of tornadoes rotate in the same direction as Earth, known as being cyclonic.
🌪️Anticyclonic tornadoes spin in the opposite direction and are much rarer.
🌪️Anticyclonic tornadoes are often observed as companions to cyclonic tornadoes.
🌪️They can form as smaller satellites orbiting around a parent tornado or as landspouts in non-supercellular storms.
🌪️Recognizing the patterns and locations of anticyclonic tornadoes can help spotters anticipate their development.
How common are anticyclonic tornadoes?
—Anticyclonic tornadoes are extremely rare, comprising less than 2% of all tornadoes.
Do anticyclonic tornadoes pose a significant threat?
—In most cases, anticyclonic tornadoes are small and pose minimal danger. However, there have been instances of powerful and destructive anticyclonic tornadoes, though they are very rare.
What causes tornadoes to spin in different directions?
—Tornado rotation is influenced by the direction of atmospheric motion. When the motion aligns with Earth's rotation, tornadoes spin cyclonically. Conversely, when the motion opposes Earth's rotation, anticyclonic tornadoes form.
Can anticyclonic tornadoes be predicted?
—Due to their rarity, anticyclonic tornadoes are difficult to anticipate. Even trained observers may not anticipate their development. However, by recognizing certain patterns and storm characteristics, spotters can increase their chances of identifying potential anticyclonic tornadoes.
Are anticyclonic tornadoes better or worse than cyclonic tornadoes?
—Anticyclonic tornadoes are neither better nor worse than cyclonic tornadoes. They are simply a different type of tornado with opposite rotational characteristics. Both types can vary in intensity and pose risks to people and property.
00:04Most tornadoes rotate cyclonically, following the direction of Earth's rotation. However, anticyclonic tornadoes, which spin in the opposite direction, are much rarer.
00:42Anticyclonic tornadoes are often observed as companions to cyclonic tornadoes in supercell storms. They can also form as satellites orbiting around a parent tornado or as landspouts in non-supercellular storms.
05:49Recognizing certain storm patterns and characteristics can help spotters anticipate the development of anticyclonic tornadoes.
06:54While most anticyclonic tornadoes are small and pose minimal danger, rare instances of powerful and destructive anticyclonic tornadoes have been documented.
07:26The most powerful anticyclonic tornado ever recorded was an F4-rated tornado that struck West Bend, Wisconsin in 1981, causing significant damage and loss of life.
