Nature's Fury: 10 Unique Landscapes Sculpted by Tornadoes

5. The Tornado Lake of Iowa

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A unique body of water called Tornado Lake is evidence of nature's transforming ability among Iowa's undulating hills. A strong tornado that tore over the region in the late 1960s created this lake, not glaciers or river systems. The great suction and downpour of the twister produced a deep hole that later filled with water to form almost a round lake. The surrounding terrain was also drastically changed with new drainage patterns created and hillides rebuilt. With a range of fish and waterfowl, Tornado Lake is a vibrant ecology today. Local fisherman and nature lovers, who are often astounded to discover of its violent beginnings, now frequent this area. The lake reminds us live of how even the most catastrophic natural calamities can result in the development of fresh and dynamic ecosystems. The lake's unusual circular form, which directly results from the rotational powers of the tornado, has produced a range of microhabitats all around its edge. Shallow places close to the coast support emergent vegetation, which provides juvenile fish cover and vital breeding habitat for amphibians. Larger fish species now find sanctuary in the lake's deeper middle section, which the strong winds of the tornado blasted out. Because of its round form and impact on water circulation patterns, which are unique and help to create a healthy, well-oxygenated aquatic habitat, limnologists studying Tornado Lake have observed The development of the lake has also had a major effect on the local hydrology, generating new wetlands and changing groundwater flows. Diverse plant communities including uncommon species that have found a place in this recently constructed habitat have evolved out of these alterations around the lake. Offering insightful lessons in ecosystem resilience and adaptation, Tornado Lake is a potent illustration of how nature can produce beauty and richness from disaster.