This week is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Minnesota, and today's focus is understanding tornadoes. Two mock tornado drills will take place today, including siren activation, at 1:45 pm, and again at 6:45 pm. A tornado is a narrow, violently rotating column of air that extends from the base of a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes are capable of completely destroying well-made structures, uprooting trees, and hurling objects through the air like deadly missiles. Tornadoes can occur at any time of day or night, at any time of the year, and in all 50 states. Before the Tornado Tornado watches highlight the area where tornadoes are most likely to develop. Continue with your normal activities, but keep informed of the latest weather information and be ready to get to shelter in case tornadoes develop quickly.