Tornado preparation
Although no amount of preparation can be put in to stop a tornado from hitting a certain area, there are things that can be done in advance to lessen the devastation that they can cause.
Preparation (Before) 1. Watch for the following signs Dark, often greenish clouds – a phenomenon caused by hail Wall cloud – an isolated lowering of the base of a thunderstorm Cloud of debris Large hail Funnel cloud – a visible rotating extension of the cloud base Roaring noise If these are visible, it is best to start preparing your home for the possibility of a tornado. 2. Prepare an emergency kit A good emergency kit should include;
It should also include important documents such as;
3.Secure your home
4. Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning Many people don't know the difference, but it is essential to know what they are because they are crucial warning systems. First of all, a TORNADO WATCH is when there is a POSSIBILITY that a tornado may form due to a severe storm. A tornado watch is merely a prediction, but it should not be taken lightly, because this is the best time to leave. A TORNADO WARNING is when a tornado has actually been spotted in a 50-100km radius of a warning area, and is coming directly towards a town. This is the time to gather in the safe room or basement of a house. Preparation during When in danger, there is not much we can do to prepare, so much as ensure our immediate safety and worry about the consequences later. Here are some things to do during a tornado: 1. Stay or leave If at home, you have 2 choices; Stay or Leave. It is recommended that if the tornado ranks more the F1 on the Fujita scale, it is best to leave the house. Anything higher than F1 has the ability to raise roofs, destroy houses and put people in danger. However, if you are planning to leave, it is best to do so BEFORE a tornado warning has been issued. The saying 'better safe then sorry' is good to remember when making a choice. 2. Seek Shelter Your first priority should be shelter. A structure underground is the preferable option, like a basement or cellar. If this is not possible, get to a strong room in the house where there are no windows in the middle of the house. If caught in the outdoors during a tornado, get to the nearest shelter immediately. If you are in a mobile home, get out immediately. They can be damaged by even an F0 tornado, the lowest type. If this is not possible, get in a car, buckle in, and drive. If you spot a tornado or flying debris occurs, do not attempt to keep driving. Instead, pull over and put your head underneath the windows, and hands above your head. Cover yourself with a blanket if possible. If you can get noticeably lower than the road outside, get out of the car and get lower. Your choice should only be affected by your own circumstances. |