Mesocyclone

A mesocyclone is a rotating updraft within a thunderstorm, typically associated with severe weather such as tornadoes. It forms when strong winds at different altitudes create horizontal rotation, which is then tilted vertically by the storm's updraft, causing the air to spin vertically. This rotation can deepen and organize, indicating a potentially dangerous storm. Mesocyclones are usually detected by weather radar and serve as a key indicator for the development of tornadoes. They are essential in meteorology for predicting and assessing severe storm threats.