Tornadoes are small-scale atmospheric phenomena that have large power of destruction along their path. Tornado occurrence has been reported with increasing frequency in Brazilian territory. From the point of view of engineering, special attention should be destined to sensible structures, such as nuclear power plants and towers for transmission of electric energy. In spite of observed collapses of these systems due to the action of tornadoes in national territory, Brazilian researches on this subject are incipient. In this context, the mechanical effects of tornado incidence on transmission towers are studied and compared with values prescribed by the usual standards for wind design. The wind field model proposed by Wen (1975) based on the work of Kuo (1971) and simulations of representative transmission towers of South and Southeast Brazilian river basins, favorable to such events, are used. From these studies, a methodology for evaluation of the tornadic global effects in the design of transmission towers is proposed and exemplified. The method is carried out through the variation of several parameters involved in the problem, seeking to critical situations. Finally, a broader tornadic demand analysis is made and a methodology for evaluation of transmission tower annual probability of failure due to tornado events is suggested and illustrated.