This article is about surviving tornado season. If you live in the United States, this will be helpful knowledge. The US has more tornadoes yearly than any other country, resulting in over 80 deaths and 1500 injuries every year. Tornado season, the time when tornadoes are most rampant, runs from April through June. Tornado Alley is an area of the US that is a particular target of tornadoes. It runs from Wyoming to Ohio, as far north as North Dakota and as far south as Texas. If you live in this region, tornado preparedness should be a basic fact of life. But even if you live outside of it, there is no guarantee of safety- some of the worst hit places in recent years have been in Florida, well outside of Tornado Alley.

With a little preparation though, you will be able to maximize your chances of getting through a tornado safely. The first thing you need to do is to be aware of the weather. Whenever there is a severe storm in your area, tune into the news (on my site I recommend having a battery-powered radio with extra batteries, as the power grid cannot be relied on during a severe storm). You need to keep an ear out for these two phrases: tornado watch, and tornado warning.

A tornado watch is issued when weather conditions exist that encourage tornadoes. A tornado warning means a funnel cloud has been spotted or traced on weather radar. If a tornado warning has been issued, you must seek shelter immediately.

Other indications that a tornado may be near are low-lying greenish clouds, a loud wind similar to a train, and large hail.

Most injuries and deaths during a tornado are the result of flying debris, so the best thing to do is get indoors. Find a centralized room without any windows, on the lowest floor of the building possible. If you can get under something for extra support, such as a heavy table or work bench. Avoid being near top-heavy furniture that can fall over, such as cabinets or book shelves.

If you’re in your car when a tornado hits, get out immediately. Find a low-lying area, such as a ditch, and lie down. Cover your head with your hands, and wait for the storm to die down.

Tornado season can be a scary time, but if you know how to protect yourself you will greatly increase your chances of survival.

Good luck and stay prepared!

Read more from RamboMoe at preparedforthat.com

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