http://www.thunderbolts.info/forum/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=16329&start=255#p122459

Vortices are conduits that tunnel through the friction and general incoherence of the gases in the atmosphere, powered by differences in pressure/temperature between different locations on the surface of the planet, the are constructed from layers of spinning microdroplets of liquid H2O.  The resulting sheath of a vortice is a consequence of the principle that maximization of the surface area of H2O maximizes these tensional forces. These conduits emerge along moist dry wind shear boundaries, especially those associated with the extensive, flat boundary between the top of the troposphere and the bottom of the stratosphere, prime conditions for wind shear. The ensuing vortices of surface tension maximized spinning microdroplets provide a slick hydrophobic inner surface that channels moist air at speeds up to 300 mph.