Data suggest that the United States spawns the largest number of tornadoes on the planet, with about 1,000 barreling through yearly. How in the world did we win the severe weather lottery? Blame unique topography, for one. A flat interior bakes in the sun, abundant moisture from the Gulf of America surges over the smooth terrain, and bingo: thunderstorms – the birthplace of tornadoes – erupt. U.S. experts also tend to carefully track occurrence, which boosts our comparative tornado count. Interestingly, Russia and Australia, with similar geographies, might rank in this atmospheric lottery if better weather records existed.
“Forecasters are getting more accurate at predicting exactly where tornadic conditions may strike,” says Adriana Young, Owner, Paul Davis Restoration of Central Dallas Fort Worth in Texas. “Tornadoes feed on severe thunderstorms that feature rising hot air, falling cold air and winds that nudge the currents to spin. But meteorology is not a perfect science. We should all know tornado facts and what to do.”
Because tornadoes have been reported in every state, arm yourself with vital information in case the world’s most violent storm strikes your locale.
Where and When Tornadoes Occur:
The traditional “Tornado Alley” spanned Great Plains states such as Kansas, Texas and Oklahoma but incidence has shifted to midwestern and southeastern states such as Illinois, Iowa, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Virginia. Cities are at risk, too: tornadoes have plowed through Dallas, Miami, Minneapolis, Oklahoma City, Wichita Falls, Salt Lake City and St. Louis at some point in history. While tornadoes are most likely during the warm months, they can form in any month of the year.
Do This Now for Tornado Preparation:
First, identify trusted local forecasts and sign up for community warning systems. Second, stay abreast of weather developments and plan for power failure by purchasing a battery-powered radio and keeping electronics fully charged. Third, identify ready shelter both in your locality and on your property. Finally, tidy up and maintain your property. Secure building exteriors, trim tree limbs and store outdoor furniture or other items that could become projectiles in high winds.
Do This If a Tornado Warning Occurs:
Seek shelter right away; do not wait until you see or hear a tornado, when it may be too late to protect yourself. If sheltering in place, choose basements, storm cellars or interior rooms on lower levels. Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Don’t open windows: it won’t shield your home from damage and poses risks to your personal safety. Sheltering under pillows, heavy quilts, mattresses and wearing helmets – if these items are close at hand right away – may help deflect flying debris. If you are in a vehicle, don’t retreat under overpasses or bridges, which may act as wind tunnels. Choose low and flat locations instead.
“We recommend one more preparatory step,” Young says. “Choose an experienced and trustworthy restoration company before a tornado threatens. If the storm damages your home or property, you get a jumpstart on recovery if you know who to call as soon as it blows over.”
