A tornado can strike in any part of the country. According to the National Weather Service, the nation experiences more than one thousand touch-downs each year, with the highest frequency occurring between March and July. The most susceptible geographic area is the central and southern plains from South Dakota to Texas. Understanding how a tornado forms and what to do if one threatens your area can save your life.
Tornado Formation
Tornadoes can be different shapes and sizes, and severity depends on the speed of rotation. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, 69 percent of tornadoes are classified as weak, lasting less than ten minutes, and have a wind speed of less than 110 mph. Teach your kids to recognize that when the sky becomes dark with clouds, it is time to seek shelter and notify an adult. Dark clouds with a greenish tint and/or rotation are tell-tale signs that a tornado may be forming.
Terminology and Notification
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, common terminology for potential tornadoes includes storm watch, tornado watch and tornado warning. A storm watch is issued when hazardous weather is possible, including heavy precipitation, strong winds, hail and lightning. A tornado watch is issued when conditions exist that are favorable for the development of tornadoes. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado, or funnel cloud, has been confirmed in the area, either by radar or field observation. Public notice is achieved by national radio broadcasts that can be heard using a NOAA weather radio, or local broadcasters using the Emergency Alert System which can be heard while listening to your favorite radio or television station.
Make a Plan
It is imperative for you to prepare for tornado response planning before the season approaches. Decide if you will stay in the house or leave. Decide on where you will go and how you will get there, and decide on what provisions will you need. In addition, designate a contact person for your kids. This might be a member of the family, or it may be a good friend or neighbor. Choose one that will not be affected by the storm. Ensure that your children can easily remember who that person is and how to contact them. This will be especially important if your child is away from you, for example at school, on a field trip or with friends. You can contact your local Office of Emergency Management for more information.
Get a Kit
Gather supplies to make a 72-hour kit. A basic 72-hour kit should include at least the following items: water, one gallon per person per day for three days; food, at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food; a battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio; a flashlight; a first-aid kit and a whistle to signal for help. Make sure your kids are able to open the water and food packaging. Plan early so that items can be purchased over time. Place them in a weather-resistant container such as a plastic tub or storage container that your kids can open.
Practice
Just like a drill at school, your children should rehearse your family plan on a regular basis to ensure they are prepared in the event of a real tornado. According to Disaster Prep 101, emergency drills are worth practicing until your family can seek shelter within 30 seconds. For example, if you make a safe-room in your house, ensure your kids know when to go to it, what position to take while the tornado passes, and what provisions are there if they have to seek shelter.
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