Tornado Truths: Test Your Tornado Knowledge.
True or False:
1. On a local scale, tornadoes are the most destructive of all atmospheric phenomena.
True.
2. Tornadoes can appear in many other parts of the world, but they occur most frequently in the United States.
True.
3. The strongest tornadoes have rotating winds of more than 100 mph.
True, some of the strongest tornadoes have winds up to 250 mph.
4. Tornadoes always give you a warning when they’re coming.
False: Sometimes tornados strike quickly with little to no warning. Some tornadoes are clearly visible, while rain or low-hanging clouds may hide others.
5. The following are two signs that could forewarn you of an impending tornado: still and quiet conditions, a green sky.
True. While many people might think that tornadoes follow intense thunderstorms, many times (but not all), right before a tornado, the air may go suddenly still and quiet. If you ever see a sky get suddenly dark and greenish in color, you should check your local forecast. While a green sky alone doesn’t indicate that a tornado is definitely coming, it is one of the first signs that tornadoes give of their presence
6. Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 12 and 3 pm.
False: They are actually most likely to occur between 3pm and 9pm, but can occur at any time.
7. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.
True. If you find yourself under a tornado warning or actually witnessing a tornado, seek shelter immediately. If you are outside with no shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
8. The lowest level of a shelter is the safest spot during a tornado warning.
True: Basements and storm cellars are safest during tornados. If you can’t go to a lower level or basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not open windows.
Terms to know:
“Tornado Watch” indicates that severe storm conditions are expected to surface in your area, and could result in a tornado. Remain alert for approaching storms. Know what counties or parishes are in the watch area by listening to your local radio/television station.
“Tornado Warning” indicates that an actual tornado has been sighted in your area, or is indicated by weather radar.
Information courtesy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (www.noaa.gov) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (www.fema.gov).
