Tornadoes are one of the most fascinating and powerful weather phenomena. These twisting columns of air can be incredibly destructive and often lethal when they touch the ground. Weather forecasters have long studied tornadoes in an attempt to better understand their origins and how to predict them. H. Michael Mogil expertly explains the mechanics of tornadoes, how and where they form, and what happens when they strike. He describes how advances in technology, including radar and weather satellites, have led to improved warning systems.