A mini tornado is commonly referred to as a “dust devil”. These phenomena are not true tornadoes but are instead small whirlwinds that form on hot sunny days.
Dust devils typically occur when the ground heats up rapidly, creating rising columns of warm air. As this air ascends, it can begin to rotate, forming a vertical column that picks up dust and debris, which gives it a distinctive appearance. Unlike tornadoes, dust devils are generally weak and short-lived, usually lasting only a few minutes.
It’s important to differentiate dust devils from tornadoes, as the latter are associated with severe thunderstorms and can cause significant damage. Understanding these differences helps in recognizing the varying types of wind phenomena we might encounter in nature.