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ADVANCED LISTENING PRACTICE
TORNADO ALLEY
TORNADO ALLEY
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Audio Script
Today class, we will be continuing our study of extreme weather patterns by looking at Tornado Alley. As you may already know, Tornado Alley is a region in the central part of the United States that is known for its frequent and devastating tornadoes. But did you also know that in an average year in the United States there are approximately 800 tornadoes? This area is located primarily in the Great Plains region, encompassing parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, South Dakota, Iowa, and Missouri. While tornadoes can occur in other parts of the country, Tornado Alley has a unique combination of weather patterns that make it more prone to these destructive storms.
So, why exactly do so many tornadoes happen in this region? Well, the geography of Tornado Alley plays a significant role in its susceptibility to tornadoes. The region is located in the middle of the country, far away from large bodies of water that can moderate temperatures and reduce the formation of severe weather. In addition, the area's topography is relatively flat, with few natural barriers to prevent cold air from the north from colliding with warm, moist air from the south. During the spring and summer months, warm moist air from the Gulf of Mexico flows northward, meeting colder drier air from the Rockies. This clash of air masses creates the ideal conditions for intense thunderstorms, often producing tornadoes.
The tornadoes that form in Tornado Alley can be incredibly destructive. They can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, uproot trees, and even overturn vehicles. The tornadoes can also result in injuries and fatalities, making them a significant threat to human life. In fact, tornadoes cause about 80 deaths a year.
Despite the risks associated with living in Tornado Alley, many people still choose to reside in the region due to its benefits. For example, the area is known for its fertile soil, making it an ideal location for agriculture. Additionally, many communities in Tornado Alley have a strong sense of community and resilience, with residents coming together to support each other during times of crisis.
Over the years, researchers have made significant strides in understanding the science behind tornadoes and how they form. This knowledge has led to improved forecasting and warning systems, giving people in Tornado Alley more time to prepare and seek shelter before a tornado strikes.
After the break, we'll continue by discussing the practical steps you can take to survive a tornado.
Today class, we will be continuing our study of extreme weather patterns by looking at Tornado Alley. As you may already know, Tornado Alley is a region in the central part of the United States that is known for its frequent and devastating tornadoes. But did you also know that in an average year in the United States there are approximately 800 tornadoes? This area is located primarily in the Great Plains region, encompassing parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, South Dakota, Iowa, and Missouri. While tornadoes can occur in other parts of the country, Tornado Alley has a unique combination of weather patterns that make it more prone to these destructive storms.
So, why exactly do so many tornadoes happen in this region? Well, the geography of Tornado Alley plays a significant role in its susceptibility to tornadoes. The region is located in the middle of the country, far away from large bodies of water that can moderate temperatures and reduce the formation of severe weather. In addition, the area's topography is relatively flat, with few natural barriers to prevent cold air from the north from colliding with warm, moist air from the south. During the spring and summer months, warm moist air from the Gulf of Mexico flows northward, meeting colder drier air from the Rockies. This clash of air masses creates the ideal conditions for intense thunderstorms, often producing tornadoes.
The tornadoes that form in Tornado Alley can be incredibly destructive. They can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, uproot trees, and even overturn vehicles. The tornadoes can also result in injuries and fatalities, making them a significant threat to human life. In fact, tornadoes cause about 80 deaths a year.
Despite the risks associated with living in Tornado Alley, many people still choose to reside in the region due to its benefits. For example, the area is known for its fertile soil, making it an ideal location for agriculture. Additionally, many communities in Tornado Alley have a strong sense of community and resilience, with residents coming together to support each other during times of crisis.
Over the years, researchers have made significant strides in understanding the science behind tornadoes and how they form. This knowledge has led to improved forecasting and warning systems, giving people in Tornado Alley more time to prepare and seek shelter before a tornado strikes.
After the break, we'll continue by discussing the practical steps you can take to survive a tornado.
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