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Tornado Safety Tips You Can Use | SERVPRO® of East Coral Springs
4/30/2019 (Permalink)
Tornado
Spring weather brings with it many things, one of them being unpredictable weather. For this reason, you should always be prepared for the chance of severe thunderstorms that can set the stage for tornadoes.
The months of April and May have traditionally had the highest occurrences of tornadoes at 30% and 24% respectively, which means we are currently in the midst of tornado season throughout the United States.
Included in this blog are some tips and information on tornadoes that can help keep your family prepared for the worst possible scenario.
Approximately 1,200 tornadoes occur in the U.S. each year, stemming from severe thunderstorms, especially the types known as “supercells.”
A tornado comes into being when changes in wind speed and direction create a horizontal spinning effect within a storm cell. This is then tipped vertical by rising air moving up through the thunderclouds.
When a tornado is forming, its signature funnel cloud is transparent, but becomes visible as water droplets from the storm’s moist air condense or dust and debris are picked up.
A typical tornado can grow to be 660 feet wide and will move at 10 to 20 miles per hour, although larger and faster have been observed. Hail and intense winds of more than 200 mph can accompany tornadoes.
Most tornadoes will typically occur later in the afternoon, but remember spring weather is unpredictable and they can occur anytime and anywhere.
Knowing the difference between a tornado watch and tornado warning is helpful. A watch is issued when the conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop, while a warning is issued when an actual tornado has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar.
It is very important, especially if you are in the path of the tornado, to take quick action and find a safe shelter if a warning has been issued for your area.
- Underground options like a basement or storm shelter.
- The lowest part of your home, in an area that is away from outside walls, doors and windows. Interior closets and bathrooms can be ideal options.
- If you are outside, try to get to a sturdy building. Mobile homes and trailers are not a safe option.
- If on the road and no building access is available, do not get under an overpass or bridge. Instead, find a low, flat location and use your arms to protect your head and neck.
Ensure there are flashlights, a battery-powered weather radio and extra batteries available in your selected tornado shelter at home.
In the event you are ever caught out on the road during a tornado, NEVER try to outrun it. For further protection when you are taking shelter in your home, you can provide additional cover by using furniture items like couch cushions, mattresses or blankets to help keep your head and neck covered.
Tornadoes are dangerous and can turn a complete town upside down. While meteorologists and weather services can provide some advanced warning to potential threats, tornadoes can still occur with little to no warning at all.
If your home or business has been damaged by a tornado, know that SERVPRO® of East Coral Springs is ready and waiting to jump into action and get cleanup and restoration of your property underway.