On my weather website, if it says severe storms could occure strong winds

[nelson8512@sbcglobal.net]

could a tornado happen in that? would they know before hand if it doesnt say tornados just strong winds or could a tornado just happen to happen during the strong winds and they didnt predict it before? or does strong winds 50 60 miles per hour mean tornados?

[kiwi]

Tornadoes are generally formed when a cold front is slamming into a hot area.
Yes, it is possible for tornadoes to form in a severe storm. They don't always predict tornado watches, but it's wise to be on the lookout for the possibility.

[Good ride, cowboy]

The speed of the wind doesn't have much to do with tornadoes. It's the direction of the winds that causes tornadoes.

Tornadoes can't happen unless there is rotation in the storm (aka--the storm is spinning). If the winds are blowing and rotating, then you need to worry about tornadoes.

My best advice would be not to worry about it. The only time you need to worry about tornadoes is if you are under a tornado watch. Other than that, don't worry about it. If there is a threat for tornadoes, the news casters will let you know.

[pegminer]

Any time you get severe thunderstorms then tornadoes are a possibility. However, wind shear conditions are probably not favorable for tornadoes so they are not a high probability. Still, if severe storms are happening in your area it's a good idea to keep tuned to a radio in case a tornado forms.