What You Need to Know to Prepare Yourself for a Tornado

Since my recent move to Southern Oklahoma, I have learnt that I need to be aware of the weather during storm season. I have been threw many severe storms, have witnessed funnel clouds and have been through tornado warnings in my area many times. Local folk have explained to me what precautions I need to adhere too and what to watch for during a storm.

Tornados are very dangerous and take so many lives every year. Every tornado season, you hear how lives are lost from another tornado strike. Did you know that every state in the US except Alaska has reported tornados? The most common time of year for tornados to occur is during the spring and summer months when warm moist air combines with cool dry air. Even though spring and summer months can be the most likely time a tornado can happen, they can appear anywhere or anytime during the year.

Be sure to be alert during thunderstorms when tornados are likely to happen. Watch the skies for dark clouds, hail, circulating clouds, and calm periods while the storm is in action or shortly after. In my opinion it will look like Armageddon outside. Listen for unusual roars that sound similar to a train that differs from the normal thunder during a storm. Keep the TV on tuned to your local news station to keep updated with the weather.

It is very important to know where to take shelter in your home in case a tornado warning is issued in your area. You need to go to the lowest level of your home and stay far away from windows or doors. If you have no basement, take shelter in a bath tub with a heavy blanket covering you or in any room such as a closet that has no windows. If you live in a mobile home, be sure to evacuate immediately should a tornado warning or very severe weather be issued near by. Mobile homes cannot withstand such weather and are often blow apart like cardboard boxes.

Talk to family members and make a plan on how to get together should a tornado happen during school and work hours. Have a kit handy equipped with self powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, first aid kit, food and water. Be sure to have at least 2 gallons of water per family member.

Also, you must be aware of the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. This can often be confusing, especially for people who hear it for the first time. I must admit I freaked out a few times till I knew what was happening. A tornado warning is when a tornado has touched the ground or the weather radars have picked one up. A tornado watch is when the conditions are favorable and to stay alert.

During storm season severe weather should not be taken lightly. Stay safe and be aware of what may be happening in your area. Keep supplies within reach and be ready to take immediate shelter.