Freak Foreseen Tornado

The Hong Kong Observatory recorded a "freak" tornado on the cargo apron at Chek Lap Kok airport.

Click to view comic The funnel knocked over a van and blew cargo against a plane's fuel pipe, damaging it and causing an oil spill.

Hong Kong has recorded seven tornados to date, the last occurring at Chek Lap Kok in May 2002.

That two happened at the airport bears consideration. Hong Kong is prone to thunderstorms, with an average of 45 storm days per year, while Chek Lap Kok is subject to wind shear, downdrafts and terrain-induced turbulence.

Understanding that conditions are favourable for tornado formation, why did the Observatory label this one a freak?

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