Does size matter in a tornado? In other words, do the biggest tornadoes produce the strongest winds and thus the most damage?
One prominent tornado researcher says "yes, bigger equals stronger." Still, when one studies a large number of tornadoes, that's only a general rule.
Experts say one can't determine from looking at the size of a tornado whether it will be weak or strong.
There are exceptions to any rule. No doubt large "wedge" or "stove pipe" tornadoes can produce damage on a wider scale, since their paths cover more ground side-to-side.
But not all large tornadoes produce top winds. Experienced storm chasers say even tornadoes that appear as "ropes" can still pack quite a punch.
There's a correlation here with figure skaters, who can spin faster when they bring their arms closer to their body.
Keep in mind that all tornadoes are classified by the
Enhanced Fujita Scale, which estimates a tornado's wind speed by the damage left behind.
Even a much-stronger tornado can leave behind only F0 or F1 (minor) damage depending on where the damage occurred relative to the strongest circulation.
