This series examines some of the disasters, natural and man-made, that have had historical significance in America. The results of these disasters have ranged from weather warning systems to fire code regulations, but at a great price. Because of the loss of life and property these disasters caused, steps were taken to reduce and to eliminate the tragedies of similar disasters in the future. Wrath of God: Disasters in America would be useful for classes on American History, Civics, American Culture, Science and Technology, Geography and Safety. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Tornado Alley

Tornado Alley presents some of the most destructive and terrifying tornadoes in American history, and pays particular attention to the massive Tri-State Tornado of 1925. It combines archival footage with eyewitness accounts, and illustrates the devastating effects of tornadoes, and how improvements in warning systems have reduced the number of casualties from recent tornadoes.

Vocabulary

• spellbound
• apparitions
• prolific
• velocity
• obliterated
• paradox
• vortex
• mesmerize
• swath
• superlative
• lexicon
• entity
• catastrophic
• brazen
• vengeance
• notions
• meteorology
• phenomenon
• menacing
• denuded
• nondescript
• convulsed
• colleague
• enigma

Discussion Questions

1. Tornadoes are one of the most terrifying forces in nature, with the ability to produce widespread destruction. What causes a tornado? Why are they so strong?
2. The largest tornado ever recorded was the Tri-State Tornado of 1925. What made this awesome tornado so destructive and so rare?
3. Today, because of rapid communication and information systems, we can find out the weather report by just turning on the radio or television, or turning on the computer. How did people predict the weather before the age of rapid communication?
4. What is the origin of the name tornado? What other names have been used to describe tornadoes?
5. Where is Tornado Alley and why does this particular geographic region produce so many tornadoes?
6. During the Tri-State Tornado of 1925, mine workers experienced no casualties. Why were the mineshafts the safest places to be during the tornado?
7. Tornadoes, like other terrifying events, seem to defy explanation. What were some of the explanations for the Tri-State Tornado? What other instances or events do people try to explain?
8. How are local governments and people in general better prepared for tornadoes today than they were 70 years ago?
9. What is the Plainfield Warning? How do meteorologists use this term?
10. How would you protect yourself during a tornado warning?

Extended Activities

1. On a map of the United States, chart the path of the Tri-State Tornado.
2. Create a poster that illustrates the formation and occurrence of a tornado.