Tornado Survival Information
Surviving a Tornado
Understanding what a tornado is and how to live through one.
A tornado is an awesome force that astounds many and terrifies many more. With the power of a freight train, a tornado can level an entire house. It can also pick up a carton of eggs and place them unharmed miles and miles away from their original location. There seems to be no rhyme or reason to a tornado’s destructive path and what it chooses to leave alone.
Warning Signs of a Tornado
There are many signs that indicate a tornado may be coming. These include a dark sky that is greenish in color, wall clouds, large hail, the wind may die down and become very, very still, an approaching cloud of debris and the sound similar to a freight train. If any of these signs appear, it is a good idea to check your local weather conditions and see if a tornado watch is in effect.
A Tornado Watch vs. a Tornado Warning
The National Weather Service will issue a tornado watch when conditions are favorable for tornados. During a tornado watch, you should keep your eye out for weather conditions that indicate a tornado may be coming. When a watch turns into a tornado warning, it means a tornado has been spotted and it’s time to take cover.
When a Tornado Strikes
When a tornado strikes, it’s time to get to safety. This means getting into a tornado shelter or a basement if possible. If you can’t get underground, go into an interior room of your home that does not have windows, such as a bathroom or a broom closet. If you are in a mobile home, get out and find shelter somewhere else.
If possible, get under a heavy piece of furniture and hold onto it. Protect your head and neck with your arms.
If you spot a tornado while outside, try to get indoors and to safety as quickly as possible. If you’re not able to get inside, lie in a ditch or crouch next to a strong building. If you need to lie in a ditch, make sure that there isn’t any flooding and if flooding begins, be prepared to move quickly.
If you’re in a car, get out quickly and try to get inside or find a ditch to lie in. Never, ever try to outrun a tornado.
By following the above guidelines, you will greatly increase your chances of survival should a tornado strike.