Tornado scars Australia: Rare anomaly reshapes the Nullarbor
On the vast, barren plains of the Nullarbor in Australia, an extraordinary phenomenon has been discovered—a "scar" stretching several miles in the ground. Satellite images revealed a linear anomaly that immediately caught researchers' attention. This remarkable discovery and its analysis unveiled a powerful weather event that left a permanent mark on this desert terrain.
The whole story began earlier this year when a Google Earth user noticed an unusual mark on the ground running from Western Australia to its southern border. It looked like a giant "scar", unnaturally standing out from the desert landscape.
The discovery piqued the interest of scientists who decided to study the anomaly. Soon, their work provided the answer—the mark was the result of one of the most powerful atmospheric phenomena that occurred in the region.
The force of nature: Tornado that carves the land
As reported by g.pl, experts from a scientific team published their research findings in the Journal of Southern Hemisphere Earth Systems Science, highlighting the incredible force of a hurricane that passed through the area in November 2022. They stated that it left behind a mark—a gap measuring 7 miles in length and between 525 to 820 feet in width.
Cycloidal patterns visible at the site revealed details about the formation of the "scar." Based on the analysis, it was determined that the tornado rotated clockwise, and the wind within it could reach speeds of up to 125 miles per hour, explained the researchers.
Short duration, long-lasting effect
The biggest surprise was the event's duration. Scientists estimate that the tornado left a mark in just 7 to 13 minutes. Despite such a short duration, the effects were visible for several months afterward.
As reported by g.pl, the reason for the "scar's" longevity turned out to be the climate of the Nullarbor Plain—extremely dry and unfriendly to the rapid regrowth of vegetation. The event from 18 months ago still clearly stands out in the landscape, both from the air and on the ground, the scientists emphasize.
Anomalies that change perspectives
This unique phenomenon provides scientists with insight into the powerful forces of nature and their ability to permanently modify the environment. The discovery in Nullarbor compels reflection on the consequences of climate change, which may intensify the occurrence of extreme weather events.
