The Lorentz force is an electromagnetic force in which a magnetic field imposes a circular motion on charged particles. This force was proposed as a contributor to tornado genesis over 30 years ago, but was rejected for a variety of reasons. However, several factors now call for a reexamination of the Lorentz force as a possible contributor toward tornadogenesis; these factors include new field evidence, a better understanding of tornadic parent storms, and a close evaluation of the previous objections. The Lorentz force may indeed play a significant role in tornado genesis, and a better understanding of this force may in turn provide meteorologists with better understanding of tornadoes and tornado-genesis. The inclusion of the Lorentz force in our modern tornadogenesis theories can answer several questions inherent in other theories: such as why we observe tornado vortex signatures aloft as much as 20 minutes before tornado touchdown, what force is responsible for the initiation of the tornadic vacuum, and how can tornadoes exceed the thermodynamic speed limit.
This paper includes a thorough review of previous electromagnetic theories and the objections to these theories. Also included is a brief review of observed electromagnetic phenomenon associated with tornadoes.