Assessing the impact and resilience of the community in the aftermath of a small-scale tornado: A field survey-based analysis

Abstract

Extreme weather can lead to the formation of small-scale tornadoes. Tornadoes are generated by cumulonimbus clouds resulting from convection or orographic lifting of an unstable air mass interacting with a relatively warm air mass within a frontal boundary. The village of Donohudan experienced a small-scale tornado event that resulted in damage to buildings, yards, power infrastructure, and injuries to individuals. This was the first time the community faced a small-scale tornado event, leading to a lack of understanding in handling the aftermath. The aim of this research is to analyze the impact of and resilience to small-scale tornadoes among the population. The research methodology involves field surveys to determine the extent of damage based on the Beaufort scale. The Connor Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) is employed as a measurement criterion to assess community resilience. The predominant damages were light structural damages and flying roofs caused by the small-scale tornado. Donohudan village demonstrated a moderate level of resilience to small-scale tornadoes, influenced by factors such as flexibility in adapting to changes and challenges, support from family and social networks, spiritual influence, and having a goal-oriented life.