Tornado Preparedness

Problem: Tornados
Scope: Local, Regional
Impact: Minor, Major (Depending on severity)
Dangers (not limited to): Personal Injury/Death, Catastrophic Property Damage/Building, Utilities Interruption, Flying debris, Flash flooding, Electrocution
Preps (not limited to): Plan, Damage Insurance, Storm Shelter, Food and Water Storage, First Aid, Backup Power Source

The movie Twister may have been laughable, but tornados are no joke. Tornados are among the most destructive and deadly natural disasters. They can occur in any part of the United States, but they are most common in the Midwest and the South, and mostly during the summer months when the weather is warm and humid.

Dangers of a Tornado

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimates that there are around 1,200 tornados in the United States every year, resulting in an average of 70 fatalities and 1,500 injuries.

Some of the dangers associated with tornadoes include:

1. High winds: Tornadoes are characterized by violent winds that can exceed 200 miles per hour. These winds can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, as well as knock down trees and power lines.
2. Flying debris: As tornadoes move across the ground, they can pick up and hurl debris at high speeds. This can include everything from small rocks to large pieces of metal or wood, which can cause significant damage to buildings and injure or kill people.
3. Flash flooding: Tornadoes often occur in conjunction with severe thunderstorms, which can produce heavy rainfall and flash flooding. This can pose a significant risk to people who are caught in low-lying areas or near bodies of water.
4. Electrical hazards: Tornadoes can knock down power lines and transformers, creating a significant risk of electrical shock or electrocution.
5. Gas leaks and fires: As tornadoes damage buildings and infrastructure, they can also rupture gas lines and cause fires. This can pose a significant risk to people who are caught in the path of the tornado.

It is important to take tornado warnings and watches seriously and follow appropriate safety procedures to protect yourself and your loved ones. The best way to stay safe during a tornado is to be prepared. Here are some tips on how to prepare for a tornado at home, in the office, and in the car:

Preparing for a Tornado at Home

1. Create an Emergency Plan: Families should create a plan for what they will do in the event of a tornado. This plan should include where they will go for shelter, such as a basement or storm shelter, and how they will stay informed about weather conditions.
2. Designate a Safe Room: If you do not have a built-in storm shelter, identify a safe room in the house where family members can take shelter during a tornado. This room should be in a location that is away from windows and doors, and should be reinforced to provide additional protection. If a safe room is not available, identify an interior room/location in the house that is away from windows and doors, such as a bathroom or closet.
3. Prepare an Emergency Kit: An emergency kit should be prepared ahead of time, with enough supplies to last for at least three days. The kit should include essentials such as water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, toiletries, medicines , flashlights, and batteries. It is also a good idea to include a whistle to signal for help, as well as a radio to stay informed about weather conditions. You may lose power for a length of time, so a gas-powered or solar generator could provide your family with the ability to charge communications, tools, or simply run a series of lights
4. Secure Outdoor Items: Outdoor items such as patio furniture, grills, and toys can become dangerous projectiles during a tornado. Make sure to secure or store these items in a safe location before a tornado strikes.
5. Stay Informed: It is important to stay informed about weather conditions during tornado season. Pay attention to weather alerts and warnings, and have a plan in place for how to receive weather updates, such as through a weather radio or smartphone app. Take warnings seriously. It’s easy to become complacent and ignore weather warnings, but they do save lives. Tornados do not form without notice. You may even have a day or two notice if you are paying attention to the weather forecast.
6. Practice Drills: Conducting tornado drills with family members can help everyone be prepared in the event of an actual tornado. Make sure everyone knows where to go for shelter and what to do during a tornado warning.
7. By taking these steps, families can be better prepared to protect themselves and their homes in the event of a tornado. Remember to always put safety first and take all warnings and alerts seriously.

Preparing for a Tornado at the Office

1. Know your company’s emergency plan: It is important to be aware of the emergency plan of your company. Make sure to read the plan thoroughly and follow the instructions in case of a tornado warning. Familiarize yourself with the emergency evacuation routes and safe areas. If there is no emergency plan, speak to your supervisor or HR department about creating one.
2. Identify safe areas: Identify safe areas such as basements, storm shelters, or interior rooms on lower levels that can provide protection from tornadoes. Stay away from windows, large open spaces, and outside walls. If you’re unsure about safe areas, ask your supervisor or HR department for guidance.
3. Prepare an emergency kit: Keep an emergency kit at your desk that includes items such as a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, and water. This kit can help you and your colleagues in case of an emergency.
4. Stay informed: Keep yourself informed about the latest weather updates and warnings. Download weather apps or set up weather alerts on your phone. If a tornado warning is issued, follow your company’s emergency plan and move to the designated safe area immediately.
5. Practice tornado drills: Practicing tornado drills can help you and your colleagues to be prepared in case of an emergency. Conducting regular drills will ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go in case of a tornado.
6. Secure your belongings: Secure your belongings, such as your computer, important documents, and personal items, before leaving your workspace. Use a backpack or bag to keep your hands free.
7. Stay calm and help others: During an emergency, it is important to remain calm and help others who may need assistance. Help your colleagues who may have mobility issues or need special assistance to reach the safe area.

Preparing for a Tornado in the Car

1. Stay Alert and Pay Attention to the Weather Forecast: One of the most important things you can do to be prepared for a tornado while driving is to stay alert and pay attention to the weather forecast. If there is a chance of severe weather in your area, make sure to check the local weather forecast frequently. Keep an eye on the sky and be aware of any changes in the weather conditions.
2. Know the Signs of a Tornado: It is also important to know the signs of a tornado. Look for dark, greenish skies, large hail, and a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud. If you see any of these signs while driving, it is important to take immediate action.
3. Have an Emergency Kit in Your Car: Having an emergency kit in your car is important for any type of emergency, including tornadoes. Your emergency kit should include food, water, blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications. You should also have a battery-operated radio to stay informed about the weather conditions.
4. Find a Safe Place to Park: If you are driving and you see a tornado forming, the first thing you should do is try to find a safe place to park. Look for a sturdy building or a low-lying area away from trees and power lines. Once you have found a safe place to park, turn off the engine and put your seat belt on.
5. Get Down Low and Cover Your Head Once you are parked in a safe place, get down low and cover your head with your hands. If possible, get into a ditch or a low-lying area away from the car. Stay there until the tornado has passed.
6. Avoid Overpasses: One common myth about tornado safety is that overpasses provide shelter during a tornado. This is not true. Overpasses can actually make things worse by creating a wind tunnel effect that can make the winds even stronger. If you are caught in a tornado while driving, it is important to avoid overpasses and seek shelter elsewhere.
7. Stay Informed: Finally, it is important to stay informed about the weather conditions and the path of the tornado. Keep the radio on and listen for updates from local authorities. If you have a smartphone, you can also use weather apps or social media to stay informed about the weather conditions in your area.

Tornado Emergency Preparedness Kit

A well-stocked tornado kit can help you and your family survive in the aftermath of a tornado. It should include essential items to sustain you until help arrives. Here are some items to include in your tornado kit:

1. Water: You will need to have a supply of clean water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. Plan to have at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days.
2. Food: Non-perishable food items like canned goods, dried fruits, and energy bars should be included in your kit. Be sure to have a manual can opener on hand.
3. First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential to treat injuries and prevent infections. Include items like bandages, gauze, antiseptic, and medications for pain relief.
4. Flashlights and Extra Batteries: In the event of a power outage, flashlights can be essential. Make sure you have extra batteries for your flashlights and other electronic devices.
5. Personal Hygiene Items: Pack items like toilet paper, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer.
6. Emergency Blankets: If you are stranded in your car or have to evacuate your home, emergency blankets can keep you warm and dry.
7. Weather Radio: A battery-powered or hand-cranked weather radio can keep you informed about tornado warnings and other weather alerts.
8. Whistle: In case you are trapped or need help, a whistle can signal for attention.
9. Cash and Important Documents: Keep cash and important documents in a waterproof container. These items include copies of insurance policies, identification cards, and contact information for family and friends.
10. Tools and Supplies: Keep a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities if necessary. Also, include a fire extinguisher, duct tape, and a multi-purpose knife.
11. Backup power source: Consider purchasing a gasoline generator, or a Jackery and solar panels to provide backup power during an outage.

Remember to periodically check your tornado kit and replace any expired or damaged items. Additionally, customize your kit to fit your family’s needs, like including extra medications or special equipment for individuals with disabilities.

Tornadoes are unpredictable and can strike without warning, but being prepared can help you and your loved ones stay safe. Make sure you have a plan in place and an emergency kit ready to go in case of a tornado. Stay alert to weather alerts and take tornado warnings seriously. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can minimize the impact of this devastating natural disaster.

It is our mission to educate, equip, and empower ordinary civilians to understand, prepare for, and survive any emergency they face. We cannot rely on the government to take care of us. We must take it upon ourselves to provide for and protect ourselves and our families.

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