Tornadoes strike with little warning and can be devastating. Yet, many people unknowingly make critical mistakes that put their lives at risk. From poor planning to last-minute decisions, these errors can mean the difference between survival and disaster.
Here are 15 of the most common tornado mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring Tornado Warnings
Many people ignore tornado warnings, assuming the storm won’t hit them but that’s a dangerous gamble. If a tornado warning is issued, take it seriously and go to your safe location immediately. Don’t wait for confirmation from social media or the news.
2. Waiting Until You See the Tornado to Take Cover
Some people think they’re safe until they can see a tornado but that can be a deadly mistake. Tornadoes are often hidden by heavy rain or darkness. If a warning is issued, don’t wait to get to the shelter right away, even if the sky looks calm.
3. Driving Instead of Taking Shelter
Many people think they can outrun a tornado in their car, but that’s rarely safe. Tornadoes can reach speeds over 70 mph and shift direction without warning. If one is approaching, leave your vehicle and take shelter in a sturdy building immediately.
4. Taking Shelter Under a Highway Overpass
Some people think hiding under an overpass will protect them from a tornado, but it puts them in more danger. Overpasses can funnel and intensify winds, and leave you exposed to flying debris. If no shelter is available, lie flat in a low ditch away from cars and trees.
5. Standing Near Windows to Watch the Storm
Various people can’t stand up to watching a tornado through a window but that intrigue can be perilous. Flying glass and junk and jetsam can cause veritable wounds. Persistently move to an internal parts room or storm cellar, well truant from any windows.
6. Not Having a Plan Before the Storm
Numerous people don’t plan for tornadoes until one is formerly on the way. To stay safe, choose a designated sanctum spot like a basement or interior room on the smallest bottom. Exercise williwaw drills with your family so everyone knows what to do.
7. Thinking You’re Safe Just Because You Don’t Live in Tornado Alley
Tornadoes can strike anywhere, not just in the Midwest. Every state in the U.S. has seen tornadoes, so it’s important to stay prepared no matter where you live. Familiarize yourself with your emergency plan and ensure everyone knows what to do.
8. Not Having a Weather Alert System
Tornadoes often occur at night when people are asleep and unaware of the danger. To stay alert, get a NOAA weather radio or set up emergency alerts on your phone. Don’t rely solely on outdoor sirens, as they may not wake you up in time.
9. Sheltering in a Mobile Home
Mobile homes offer little protection during tornadoes, even weaker ones. If you live in a mobile home, know where the nearest sturdy shelter is and head there immediately when a warning is issued. If no shelter is nearby, lie flat in a low-lying area, away from trees and vehicles.
10. Hiding Under a Bridge or in a Large Open Space
Some people think bridges or open fields are safer than buildings during a tornado, but they’re dangerous. Bridges provide no shelter, and open fields expose you to flying debris. The safest option is always to find a sturdy indoor shelter.
11. Forgetting About Your Pets
In the chaos of a tornado, it’s easy to forget about your pets’ safety. Make sure to include them in your emergency plan by keeping a leash and carrier nearby, and always take them with you to your shelter.
12. Assuming Tornadoes Can’t Cross Water or Mountains
Some people believe tornadoes can’t cross rivers or mountains, but that’s not true. Tornadoes can and do travel over water, hills, and even mountains. Don’t let the geography around you give you a false sense of security.
13. Not Wearing Shoes or Protective Clothing
After a williwaw, residue and detritus like broken glass and nails can be scattered each over. Keep tough shoes, a electric beacon, and a head protection in your secure put for assurance.However, put on long pants and a long- sleeved shirt to shield yourself from sharp objects, If you have time.
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14. Thinking Tornadoes Only Happen in Spring
Tornadoes are most common in spring, but they can occur at any time of the time. Stay set time-round, as tornadoes can strike indeed in downtime when warm and cold air millions collide.
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15. Not Knowing the Difference Between a Tornado Watch and a Warning
Many people confuse a Tornado Watch with a Tornado Warning, but they mean different things. A Tornado Watch means conditions are right for a tornado to form stay alert. A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted or detected, so take shelter immediately.
Final Thoughts
Tornadoes strike fast and with deadly force, but preparation saves lives. By avoiding these mistakes and knowing exactly what to do, you can greatly increase your chances of survival.
Would you be ready if a tornado hit today? Make sure you have a plan in placebefore the next storm arrives!
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