Experiencing the edge of a tornado in Poland

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Ever wondered what it is actually like to experience a tornado? Not really something on most people's bucket list. However, as a geographer I have always been curious. Thankfully I have never experienced the full horror, destruction and heartbreak of a tornado, and it must be so terrifying for those who have. However, on a trip to Poland, quite unexpectedly, I did experience what it is like to be on the edge of one.

I know, you are probably saying to yourself - do you get tornadoes in Poland? The answer most emphatically is yes! In fact, south central Poland is often described as Europe's tornado alley although we are only talking about 1 or 2 experienced on average over a decade. However, with climate change will the occurrence of these killers increase?

Anyway, speculation aside, this film clip is my experience and it was wild! It hit rapidly. You could see it weaving through the baroque old town buildings of Krakow with terrifying speed. Trees snapped over before my eyes and lumps of ice rained down on me. If this was the edge of a tornado, I never want to be near the centre of one!


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