On March 3rd, 2019, a deadly tornado tore through Lee County, Alabama, killing 23 people and leaving a path of destruction through Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. From May 16th to May 23rd of this year, more than 100 tornadoes were recorded. From those tornadoes alone, it was estimated the economic impact would be over $1 billion dollars. On average, the United States estimates there around 1200 tornadoes occurring annually.
When a tornado strikes, the damage can be anything from minor to catastrophic. No one expects their home to get hit by a tornado, but if it happens, does your family have a plan on how to recoup from the damages?
Tornadoes form from a supercell. Supercells are a type of thunderstorm, but they differ from a traditional thunderstorm. A supercell is defined as a thunderstorm with a deep rotating updraft. This updraft is referred to as a mesocyclone. Within this supercell is a spinning column of air called a vortex. This vortex can grow bigger and tilt. When that happens, it pulls warm air in and pushes cold air out. The supercell then gathers water vapor. When the cold downward air fights the upper spiral, the vortex begins to tighten and spin faster. As the spinning increases, the weight of the cold air can pull the vortex down to the ground. This is when most people see a funnel cloud, but not necessarily.
A tornadoes measurement is not indicative of how large or small the funnel is. It is based on wind speeds. What that means is a smaller tornado might have greater wind speeds than a large one. Also, some funnels don’t reach the ground. That doesn’t mean the tornado doesn’t reach the ground. There are some tornadoes without funnels, but they still have high winds and damaging circulation.
To measure how strong or dangerous a tornado is, scientists and meteorologists use the Enhanced Fujita Scale. The original Fujita Scale was named after Dr. Ted Fujita, but was modified in 2007. The scale we use now is called the Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF). These scales range from an EF-0 to an EF-5.
Having a plan of what to do during a tornado could greatly increase your chances of survival. Spending a few minutes preparing ahead of time could be the difference between life and death. There are several ways to prepare for a tornado.
When there is a tornado threat, go to the safe location you’ve set up for your family. Shield your neck and head, wrapping blankets and whatever you can find around you. Listen to the weather station or local alert system for instructions.
If you are trapped in a vehicle or outdoors, cover you head and neck the best you can. Do not take cover under an overpass or try to outrun a tornado.
If you experience tornado damage to home, don’t hesitate to call for help. 24-hour assistance is available by calling 877-960-0491. You’ll be connected to a local professional who can answer your questions and come to your home to start addressing the damage right away. It is a toll free call, and the home inspection and estimate are free as well.
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