A tornado is a violently rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground, often visible as a funnel-shaped cloud. These powerful storms are known for their incredibly high wind speeds, capable of causing widespread destruction. Tornadoes can generate winds exceeding 300 mph, capable of lifting large objects like vehicles and destroying buildings. They are also relatively short-lived, with most lasting less than 15 minutes, but their rapid formation and dissipation make them incredibly dangerous.