In recent times, advancements in technology and understanding have enhanced safety protocols during tornado events. The focus during the tornado season is not just on surviving the oncoming storms but also on being well-prepared beforehand. Different regions across the United States experience tornado seasons at varied times, with the notorious Tornado Alley—comprising Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas—peaking around May to early June. Meanwhile, the so-called Dixie Alley, which includes states like Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, sees the tornado season commence much earlier.
However, the concept of confined tornado alleys can be misleading as tornadoes have managed to strike all 50 states, with around 1,200 twisters hitting the U.S. annually. Incidents like the unexpected 2023 tornado near Los Angeles, which caused injuries and structural damage, underline the widespread risk. As tornadoes loom close, triggering alarms and panic, swift measures can be vital to ensure safety for you and your family.
Preparation ahead of the storm’s arrival is crucial, and experts advise implementing certain straightforward strategies. Using emergency alert devices like weather radios is recommended by Rick Smith, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service based in Norman, Oklahoma. Although they might seem outdated, these devices can be lifesaving, especially in the tornado-prone South where such storms often occur at night. When power outages occur, possessing multiple alert methods including smartphone apps is advisable to ensure continued updates and information.
Choosing the right place for shelter when a tornado approaches involves seeking enclosed, underground areas or above-ground safe rooms specifically designed to endure tornado-level winds. In regions like Oklahoma, where basement building is costly due to clay soil, alternatives must be sought. The general advice is to place as many barriers as possible between oneself and the storm. Items like mattresses and sturdy furniture can protect against debris, while helmets offer critical head protection. These safety items should be readily accessible for timely retrieval when needed in emergencies. For families with young children, car seats could be repurposed temporarily as a protective measure inside the home.
To enhance home safety, research indicates that shutting all interior doors, including the garage, during such storms can help manage wind pressure within buildings—a method recommended by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety. Contrary to the myth of equalizing atmospheric pressure by opening doors and windows, keeping them shut is now advocated to minimize wind intrusion within homes. Post-tornado, one may face hazardous surroundings, hence wearing appropriate clothing like long pants and robust footwear is advisable. It’s also prudent to have a prepared emergency kit containing essentials like water and nonperishable food.
As tornado threats loom over states like Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky this week, there’s a nationwide call for readiness. Residents are urged to gather supplies, identify safe spots, and establish a family communication plan. Popular media often portrays unrealistic responses to tornado threats, such as Hollywood’s depiction of characters fleeing to highway underpasses. In reality, if caught on the road during a tornado, the options are limited and none guaranteed to be safe. Finding substantial shelter off the road is preferable, but if none is accessible, historical records show that survival has varied widely regardless of precautions taken.