Dangerous tornadoes often form inside hurricanes

It is common for tornadoes to take shape within tropical systems.

In fact, it is one of the major hazards associated with hurricanes. For tornadoes to form, we need instability and wind shear and both can be found within a tropical cyclone.

When a hurricane makes landfall, friction can disrupt the storm’s organization. Air can spiral up as the surface winds move in different directions and speeds.

This will sometimes lead to the spin up of short-lived tornadoes. These are most commonly found embedded within rain bands on the northeast side of the tropical cyclone.

Last year in North Carolina, there were 39 tornado reports during Hurricane Florence. There were 12 confirmed EF-0 and EF-1, which are tornadoes with winds up to 105 mph.