• Can a tornado strike in my area?

    A.

    Tornadoes can occur in any state, at any time, but March through July, the traditional “tornado season”, are the most active months. Twisters are more frequent in the Midwest, Southeast and Southwest. The states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Texas are at greatest risk.

    • Can they be predicted?

    A.

    Yes, but only to a limited extent. Scientific research has revealed that tornadoes usually form under certain types of atmospheric conditions, which can be predicted, but not perfectly. When forecasters see those conditions develop, they can predict that tornadoes are likely to occur. However, it is not yet possible to predict in advance exactly when and where they will develop, how strong they will be, or precisely what path they will follow.

    When a tornado does occur, the development of Doppler radar has made it possible, under certain circumstances, to detect a tornado's winds with radar. However, human beings remain an important part of the system to detect tornadoes, because not all tornadoes occur in situations where the radar can "see" them. Ordinary citizen volunteers make up what is called the SKYWARN (www.skywarn.org) network of storm spotters, who work with their local communities to watch out for approaching tornadoes, so that those communities can take appropriate action in the event of a tornado.

    • How can I prepare in advance?

    A.

    Although a tornado's force is undeniable, there are steps families can take to prepare themselves beforehand.

    First, families should develop a home tornado plan. To do so, pick a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.

    If you are in a high-rise building, you may not have enough time to go to the lowest floor. Pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

    Next, families should assemble a disaster supplies kit. The kit should contain

    • First aid kit and essential medications.
    • Canned food and can opener.
    • At least three gallons of water per person.
    • Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags.
    • Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
    • Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.

    Click here for a full list of items for your disaster supplies kit.

    • What kind of damage can they do?

    A.

    The damage from tornadoes comes from the strong winds they contain. It is generally believed that wind speeds can be as high as 300 mph in the most violent tornadoes. At that strength, winds can cause automobiles to become airborne, rip ordinary homes to shreds, and turn broken glass and other debris into lethal missiles. The biggest threat to humans from tornadoes is from flying debris and from being tossed about in the wind.

    • What does a tornado watch and tornado warning mean?

    A.

    When a tornado watch is issued, stay tuned to local radio and TV stations for further updates. Be alert to changing weather conditions and look for signs such as blowing debris or the sound of a tornado, often described as a roar, or freight train.

    When a tornado warning is issued, immediately go to your designated safe place to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado may be approaching your area.

    If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety (detailed below).

    • If I'm in a mobile home, outdoors or in my car and I see a tornado?

    A.

    Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable. A mobile home can overturn very easily even if precautions have been taken to tie down the unit. When a tornado warning is issued, take shelter in a building with a strong foundation. If shelter is not available, lie in ditch or low-lying area a safe distance away from the unit.

    If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building. If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, again, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building. Use your arms to protect your head and neck from debris.

    If you are in a car or truck and see an approaching tornado, never try to out-drive it. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car or truck and toss it through the air. Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building. If there is no time to get indoors, follow the outdoor safety precautions outlined above.

    • How long do tornadoes last and how fast do they move?

    A.

    Detailed statistics about the time a tornado is on the ground or how quickly they move are not available. Their duration can range from an instant to several hours, but a typical tornado lasts approximately 5 minutes or so. Their movement can range from virtually stationary to more than 60 miles per hour. Typically, they move at roughly 10-20 miles per hour.

    • What should I do after a tornado passes?

    A.

    After a tornado passes, be alert to fallen power lines and stay out of any damaged areas. There may be updated information on the radio about the storm, so listen to any advisories. If you need to inspect damages to your home and it is dark, use a flashlight. Do not use candles at any time.



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