The Fujita Tornado Intensity Scale (Classic Reprint)

Long T. Phan, Emil Simiu

ISBN 10: 1390461823 / ISBN 13: 9781390461824

Published by Forgotten Books, 2018

About this Item

Print on Demand. This book delves into the devastating impact of the Jarrell, Texas tornado of May 27, 1997, offering a critical analysis of the Fujita tornado intensity scale. The author meticulously examines the damage caused by the tornado, revealing inconsistencies between the observed destruction and the F5 rating assigned by the National Weather Service. Through a comprehensive post-storm survey and structural engineering insights, the book argues that the damage is more consistent with an F3 rating. The author highlights the limitations of the Fujita scale, particularly its failure to account for variations in building construction quality and regional design wind speeds. This book challenges conventional assumptions about tornado classification and underscores the importance of accurate assessments in mitigating future disasters. By exposing the flaws in the existing scale, the author advocates for a more nuanced approach to understanding and responding to the destructive power of tornadoes. This book is a reproduction of an important historical work, digitally reconstructed using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in the book.

Seller Inventory # 9781390461824_0

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Fujita Tornado Intensity Scale (Classic Reprint)
• Publisher: Forgotten Books
• Publication Date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1390461823
• ISBN 13: 9781390461824
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: New
• Book Type: print-on-demand item
• Seller catalogs:
  • Audits and Surveys

About this title

Synopsis

Explore how engineering insight reshapes tornado wind speed science.

This nonfic­tion report analyzes the Jarrell tornado of May 27, 1997 and explains why damage patterns may not map neatly to traditional wind scales.

This National Institute of Standards and Technology technical note presents damage observations, structural assessments, and thoughtful recommendations. It argues for a more nuanced approach to classifying tornado intensity, grounded in design wind speeds and construction quality, and discusses implications for safety standards and future measurements.

• How damage from a tornado relates to building design wind speeds in different regions
• Why the Fujita scale can misclassify tornado intensity and how to improve it
• Observed structural failures and what they reveal about construction quality
• Recommended steps for engineers, meteorologists, and policymakers to better protect the public

Ideal for readers of engineering standards, disaster science, and applied wind research who seek a practical, evidence‑based perspective on tornado effects.