Tornadoes are common in a small percentage of states, perhaps the most recognizable being Kansas. About 69% of tornados are either light to moderate in degree of strength. Stronger tornados with winds up to 205 miles per hour. The strongest tornados last more than 20 minutes and the winds exceed 205 miles per hour. These types of tornados count for about 25 % of tornado related deaths.
Tornados develop quickly but modern weather surveillance radar systems have been able to detect tornados sooner. Just a few minutes of advanced warning has saved many lives. Paying attention when a tornado watch is given will play a vital role in ensuring your safety.
Staying Safe – tornado watches are issued when a tornado is possible in your area. Local radio and TV stations will issue weather advisories and updates as they arise. Tornado warnings are issued when a tornado has been sighted. It is important to move to a safe area if you see a tornado or receive notice of a warning. Some things you can do to keep yourself and your family safe are as follows:
- Follow your disaster plan which should include areas to go to for shelter in case of a tornado.
- Pay attention to the local radio and television stations to stay up to date on the weather status.
- Learn the community warning signals for tornados and the evacuation plan for your area. Tornados can strike with very little warning so paying attention to warning devices and acting quickly can save your life.
- If you are at home, the safest place to go is the interior of the basement. Unless of course, you have an underground shelter. If you do not have a basement, go to the interior most portion of the home. Stay away from doors and windows.
- If you are in a public building, go to the innermost area on the lowest floor. Again, stay away from doors and windows. Do not use elevators and crouch down, protecting your head.
- If you are in a car, get out of the vehicle and find shelter in a low spot such as a ditch. Avoid trees and DO NOT go underneath the car. Lie flat and put your arms over your head.
- Mobile homes are extremely vulnerable so see shelter instead of trying to stay inside the home.
- If you are in an open building, seek shelter inside a restroom. The concrete will offer the greatest protection. Remember to always protect your head.
