Dust Devils

A dust devil is a small whirlwind that spins across the ground. It looks like a tiny tornado made of dust and dirt. Dust devils happen on hot, sunny days in dry places. They are usually not very strong, but they can be fun to watch.

How Dust Devils Form

Dust devils start when the sun heats up the ground. The hot air near the ground rises quickly into the cooler air above. As the air rises, it starts to spin in a tight circle. The spinning air picks up dust, leaves, and other light things. Most dust devils only last a few seconds or minutes.

Dust Devils and Tornadoes

Dust devils are not the same as tornadoes. Tornadoes form from big storm clouds, but dust devils form on clear, sunny days. Dust devils are also much smaller and weaker. Most are only a few feet wide, but a few can be over 100 feet tall. Even the biggest dust devils are not as strong as a real tornado.

Fun Facts

• Dust devils have been seen on the planet Mars, not just on Earth.
• On Mars, dust devils can be much bigger than on Earth.
• Some Native American tribes called dust devils 'dancing spirits'.

Did You Know?

Mars rovers have photographed giant dust devils on Mars. These dust devils even clean dust off the rover's solar panels, helping them work better.