What in the World Does TORCON Index Mean?

I must say that with all of the technology that we have, paired with the power of social media, almost anybody can toss out weather-sounding terms and we would believe it.

Thundersnow

Thundersnow is one of the terms that actually sounds made up. It is pretty rare, but it is most certainly real.

Jim Cantore Experiences Thundersnow In Kansas City While Covering Winter Storm Blair

There are a plethora of weird weather terms that we will probably never use here in the Tri-State, like a haboob, which the Farmers' Almanac defines as basically a large dust storm.

Ingredients for TOR:CON: Sheer, Mist, Instability, and Moisture

The Weather Channel explains that the TOR:CON Index is a scale of 1-10 and gives forecasters an idea of where the chances for a tornado to form are the greatest. Logically, the higher the number on the TOR:CON Index, the better chance an area will experience a tornado. But that doesn't always mean a tornado will form or that multiple tornadoes will cause damage.

Meteorologists and scientists who study the weather can use things like sheer, mist, instability, and moisture to get an idea of what we need to prepare for. But, tornadoes are generally unpredictable, so it is so important to always be prepared. Even when you see that the Tri-State has a 3 on the TOR:CON, that still tells us that the conditions are prime for extreme damage.

Get our free mobile app

CenterPoint Energy Shares Storm Tips

As we stand right now (Tuesday afternoon) Our entire region has a TOR:CON Index of 7 for Wednesday, April 2. Remember, the index is 1-10. Big yikes, as the kids say.

• Stay informed: Monitor local weather updates and alerts from the National Weather Service. Follow CenterPoint on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) for updates.
  • Note: CenterPoint has launched an Indiana-specific account on X (formerly Twitter) with the latest local information. Please be sure to follow @CenterPoint_IN.
• Downed power line safety: Stay at least 35 feet away from downed power lines and report them by calling 800-227-1376.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Keep flashlights, batteries, water, medications and a battery-powered phone charger ready.