A tornado is a spinning tube of air that forms from a thunderstorm and strikes the ground. Tornadoes are extremely deadly. They can demolish buildings, uproot trees, move vehicles, and destroy whatever is in their path. There is a chance of heavy rain, lightning, flash flooding, and hail. Tornadoes can strike at any time, so it is important to prepare immediately to ensure your safety. Talk to an expert to learn more today about tornado property damage and how to recover it.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA), there is no guarantee of safety during a tornado. Even the risk of a tornado must be considered serious. Although the most destructive tornadoes can level and blow apart practically any house and everyone within it, EF5 tornadoes (the ones with wind speeds of 200 MPH or more) are extremely rare. The majority of tornadoes are substantially weaker. If you make adequate preparations, you can survive a tornado. Here are a few vital safety guidelines for you and your family.
Be prepared
The easiest approach to keeping safe during a tornado is to have the following items on hand:
- Fresh batteries and a battery-operated radio, TV, or internet-enabled device to listen to the latest emergency weather information.
- A tornado emergency plan includes access to a safe refuge for yourself, your family, special needs persons, and your pets.
- An emergency kit (including non-perishable food, water, and medication).
- A list of important information, including telephone numbers.
Ensure your children understand what a tornado is, what it watches, warnings, where it is located (often issued by county or parish), and what qualifies a site as a safe refuge, whether at home or school.
Stay aware of weather conditions.
Pay close attention to shifting weather conditions in your neighborhood to protect those you love and yourself from harm during a tornado. If thunderstorms are forecast, listen to local radio and TV stations or the NOAA weather radio station for more information. Some tornadoes strike quickly, leaving no time for a tornado warning. The following weather indicators may indicate the presence of a tornado:
- A green-colored or dark sky
- Large hail
- A large, low-lying, dark cloud
- A roar that sounds like a freight train
Take cover immediately if you see any of these conditions, and keep connected to local TV and radio stations, an NOAA weather radio station, or the internet. For more information, seek help from a professional.
