It's Tornado Season... Stay Safe!

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Springtime thunderstorms can bring more than just wind and rain! Be ready.

That beautiful springtime weather you are enjoying can also be unpredictable.  Severe thunderstorms are common this time of year and can cause perfect conditions for a tornado to form.

April and May traditionally have the highest occurrences of tornadoes across the country.  Here are some tips to help you be prepared if your home were to be threatened by a tornado

The Formation of a Tornado

There are approximately 1,200 tornadoes that occur in the U.S. each year. A tornado will form when changes in wind speed and direction create a horizontal spinning effect within a storm cell. This is then tipped vertical by rising air moving up through the thunderclouds.

Spring and summer tornadoes typically occur later in the afternoon, but it is vital to remember that they can occur anytime.

Knowing What to Do

There is an important difference between a tornado watch and tornado warning. A watch indicates conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a warning occurs when a tornado has been reported or became visible by radar.

If there has been a warning and you are in the path of the tornado, it is vital to act and find safe shelter.

Shelter options include:

• Basement or storm shelter.
• In an area that is away from outside walls, doors and windows. Interior closets and bathrooms can be ideal options.  Make sure it is in the lowest part of your home.
• If you are outside, try to get to a sturdy building.  Not a mobile homes or trailer.
• If on the road and no building access is available, do not get under an overpass or bridge. Instead, find a low, flat location and use your arms to protect your head and neck.  DO NOT try to out run it. 

If you have a safe place in your home for shelter, be sure to equip with flashlights, a battery-powered weather radio, and extra batteries.

There is very little time to react when a warning is issued for your area, so think and plan ahead so that everyone knows their options before hand. 

If your home or business has been damaged by a tornado, know that SERVPRO® of Greater Northern Charleston is ready and waiting to jump into action and get cleanup and restoration of your property underway.