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TORNADO
Tornadoes are nature's most violent storms. Spawned from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes can cause fatalities and devastate a neighborhood in seconds. A tornado appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground with winds that can reach 300 miles per hour. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long
The following are facts about tornadoes:
- They may strike quickly, with little or no warning.
- They may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel.
- The average tornado moves Southwest to Northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.
- The average forward speed of a tornado is 30 MPH, but may vary from stationary to 70 MPH.
- Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
- Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water.
- Tornadoes are most frequently reported east of the Rocky Mountains during spring and summer months.
- Peak tornado season in the southern states is March through May.
- Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., but can occur at any time.
Know the Terms
Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or television for information.
Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.
TAKE PROTECTIVE MEASURES
Before a Tornado - Be alert to changing weather conditions.
- Listen to NOAA weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information.
- Look for approaching storms.
- Look for the following danger signs:
* Dark, often greenish sky.
* Large hail.
* A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
* Loud roar, similar to a freight train.
If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately!
During a Tornado -If you are under a tornado WARNING, seek shelter immediately!
| If you are in: | Then: |
| A structure (i.e. residence, small building, school, nursing home, factory, shopping center, high-rise building) | Go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lower level. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet or hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not open windows. |
| A vehicle, trailer or mobile home. | Get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter, mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection against tornadoes. |
| The outside with no shelter. | Lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and
cover your head with your hands. Be aware of possible flooding. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. Never try to outrun an tornado in a car or truck. Watch for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries. |