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Important Tornado Safety Tips | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City
4/18/2019 (Permalink)
Tornado Funnel
Spring is a beautiful time of the year, but it can also bring unpredictable weather. So it makes sense to be prepared for the chance of severe thunderstorms that could lead to the perfect conditions for a tornado.
The highest occurrences of tornadoes at 30% and 24% respectively, have historically been in April and May, which means we are currently in the height 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.
Severe thunderstorms, especially those known as “supercells,” are responsible for roughly 1,200 tornadoes occurring in the U.S. each year.
The formation of a tornado happens 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.
Tornadoes and their signature funnel cloud are transparent at first, but they become visible when water droplets from the storm’s moist air condense or when 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 tornadoes have been observed. Hail and intense winds of more than 200 mph can accompany tornadoes.
The time of day tornadoes typically occur is later in the afternoon, but it is prudent to remember that they can occur anytime and anywhere.
Take the time to learn the difference between a tornado watch and tornado warning. A watch is issued when the conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a warning is issued when a tornado has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar.
If a tornado warning has been issued for your area, take action immediately to find safe shelter, especially if you are in the path of the tornado.
- 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.
It’s a good idea to keep flashlights, a battery-powered weather radio and extra batteries in your tornado shelter at home in case of an power failure. Also, when you are sheltering in your home, make use of furniture items like sofa cushions, mattresses or blankets to protect your head and neck.
NEVER try to outrun a tornado if you get caught on the road during a tornado.
Tornadoes are dangerous and can be devastating. 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 Henderson/Boulder City is ready and waiting to jump into action and get cleanup and restoration of your property underway. Call us today: 702-564-8508