Are tropical cyclone tornadoes weaker than midlatitude tornadoes ?
In general, it appears that TC tornadoes are somewhat weaker and briefer than midlatitude tornadoes. During the period 1948-1986, the percentage of TC tornadoes that reached F2 or greater intensity on the Fujita scale was 26% (McCaul et al. 2004), while during a roughly comparable period (1950-1976), the corresponding percentage for all U.S. tornadoes was 36% (Kelly et al. 1978). In addition, there have been no F5-rated TC tornadoes since reliable records commenced in 1950, and only two F4s. There have, however, been numerous F3s, and some of these have caused many casualties and much damage. Of course, we cannot rule out the possibility that a future TC might spawn an F5 tornado (Gentry 1983 , McCaul 1991). In Florida, in particular, the most significant tornadoes tend to occur with “hybrid” cyclones or tropical cyclones with some hybrid influence. This usually means greater westerly shear in the storm environment which is believed to be favorable for stronger, longer-lasting tornadoe
