The Truth About Tornadoes

Posted by creed on May 10, 2011 under Indy Remodeling News, Insurance Restoration, Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

We at CREED Improvements want you and your family to be safe this storm season so we prepared some truth to dispel some myths about tornadoes for you.  Indiana is in the path of “Tornado Alley”, a swath of states extending from the Southeast to the Plains.  Although tornadoes can strike any time of year, most tornadoes form during the spring months between March and June.

Historically, the most destructive tornadoes strike in March and April. June holds the record for the most tornadoes in Indiana on any given day: 37, and for the most in a single month: 44. Both records were set in 1990, which is also the year for the most tornadoes in the state: 49. Indiana averages 20 Tornadoes a year.

Tornadoes often form in the southwest portion of thunderstorms- next to the part of the storm where heavy rain or hail is falling. If you observe large hail, you are under the most intense part of the storm. Take Cover!

We at CREED Improvements want help dispel common myths about tornadoes.

Tornado Myths

MYTH:“Tornadoes never strike big cities”
TRUTH:In the past several years, tornadoes have roared through several major cities including Miami; Nashville Tenn; and Fort Worth Texas. Despite folklore, no city or town has “Natural Protection” from a tornado.

MYTH:“Go to the Southwest Corner of your Basement”
TRUTH:Some studies suggest this might actually be the most dangerous place in your basement. If a tornado hits from the southwest, it could push debris into that area. No matter where you go, try to hide under a mattress or sturdy piece of furniture to maximize protection.

MYTH:“Opening windows will equalize air pressure and prevent an explosion”
TRUTH: Most experts agree that tornado-force winds will take care of opening the windows for you. Forget this old advice. Take cover immediately!

MYTH:Lakes, rivers, and mountains protect areas from tornadoes.
TRUTH:No place is safe from tornadoes. A tornado near Yellowstone National Park left a path of destruction up and down a 10,000 foot mountain.

MYTH:A tornado causes buildings to “explode” as the tornado passes overhead.
TRUTH:Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause most structural damage.

MYTH:Highway overpasses provide shelter from tornadoes
TRUTH:Take shelter in a sturdy reinforced building if at all possible. The funneling of wind through an overpass will actually increase the wind speed. Ditches, and culverts may provide limited protection from a tornado, but your risk will be greatly reduced by moving inside a strong building.

CREEDism: Things can always be replaced but your loved ones can’t, so be prepared and stay safe out there!