Tornado Damage Indicator

A Tornado Damage Indicator is a tool used by meteorologists to assess the severity of damage caused by a tornado, especially when the tornado has moved through an area. It helps determine the tornado’s intensity based on the types and extent of damage observed on buildings, structures, and trees. By systematically evaluating the damage, meteorologists can classify the tornado’s strength using standardized scales, which aids in understanding the tornado’s power and in improving future warnings and responses. Essentially, the indicator translates physical damage into an estimate of the tornado’s wind speed and severity.