Nullarbor's enduring scar: Tornado's imprint on desert landscape
On the expansive, barren plains of the Nullarbor in Australia, an extraordinary phenomenon has been discovered—a "scar" stretching several kilometers across the ground. Satellite images revealed a linear anomaly that immediately drew researchers' attention. This remarkable discovery and analysis uncovered a powerful weather event that permanently marked this desert terrain.
The whole story began earlier this year when a user of Google Earth noticed an unusual mark on the ground, running from Western Australia to its southern border. It appeared as a giant "scar," standing out from the desert landscape unnaturally.
The discovery piqued the interest of scientists, who decided to study the phenomenon. Soon, their work provided the answer—the mark was the result of one of the most powerful atmospheric phenomena in the region.
The force of nature: Tornado that carves the land
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 revealed that it left behind a mark—a gap measuring 11 kilometres in length and between 160 to 250 metres 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, with winds that could reach speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour, explained the researchers.
Short duration, long-lasting effect
The biggest surprise was the duration of the event. 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.
The scientists emphasize that the "scar's" longevity was due to the climate of the Nullarbor Plain, which is extremely dry and unfriendly to rapid vegetation regrowth. The event from 18 months ago still stands out in the landscape, both from the air and on the ground.
Anomalies that change perspectives
This unique phenomenon provides scientists with insight into the powerful forces of nature and their ability to modify the environment permanently. The discovery in the Nullarbor compels reflection on the consequences of climate change, which may intensify extreme weather events.
