From March to May of every year, the southern states are plagued by disastrous weather phenomenon known as tornadoes. For northern states, the risk comes during spring to the onset of summer. Tornadoes are considered as storms but are actually at the tailend of thunderstorms, most of the time.
Unlike hurricanes, which are much larger, the onset of a tornado can’t be easily tracked. Satellite weather systems can not easily spot them because of their sudden development and their smaller scale.
Thus, people can only tell that there is a tornado when they actually see one. While Doppler radar may detect abnormal rotation a human still has to confirm it is a tornado. Tornadoes can be very small or they can be 1 1/2 mile wide rotating wind. The wind is so strong that almost everything that gets in the way of the tornado is easily turned to flying debris.
How to tell if a tornado is approaching? Note that before a tornado hits the wind may be calm. There may or may not be presence of rain.
Usually, tornadoes occur at the trailing end of a thunderstorm. If there is strong thunderstorm, be prepared for the possibility that a tornado may occur anytime during of before the thunderstorm ends.
Because tornadoes are made up basically of strong and whirling winds, one can not easily see them. Often, reported cases indicate that the tornado appears like a cloud-like structure.
Tornadoes can be seen due to the debris and dust they have accumulated while tracking their courses. You may see the debris rotating in the air in circular, whirling motion. When a tornado hits water it will usually turn white and it’s very easy to see.
Before a tornado hits you can also hear loud roaring sound that is almost similar to an approaching freight train.
Safety measures before a tornado
One indicator that a tornado may develop is dark and often violet to greenish sky, which is prevalent during destructive thunderstorms.
When you see and feel the indications of an approaching tornado, find a safe shelter right away. Remember, tornadoes are destructive and fatal not merely because of the strong winds but because of the debris they toss around.
This debris can vary from a roof, to large rocks, to large chunks of trees. When people are hit by such debris it’s usually fatal. So make sure the shelter you find would protect you from any such debris.
Safety measures during a tornado
Homes located in areas that are often hit by tornadoes almost always have basements. Basements offer reliable protection to people during tornadoes, so find one during a tornado. You really need a plan and you should know where you are going to go when bad weather hits.
If you’re in your car, just get out and find a safe shelter in a low spot or a ditch. Lie flat and cover your head with your hands. Be alert and look out for falling debris coming from the tornado.
After the tornado, make sure any structure in your home is not significantly damaged. If it is seek professional help at once to ensure your safety.
Tornadoes are a phenomenon that one can’t prevent from occurring. However, if you know the how to’s of being safe during such weather disturbances you will avoid being one of the many casualties arising from tornadoes.