Day 3: Severe Weather Preparedness Week

Today, Feb. 7, is the third day of Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

The topic for today is Tornado Safety:  A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from the base of a thunderstorm down to the ground. Tornadoes are capable of completely destroying well-made structures, uprooting trees, and hurling objects through the air. Although tornadoes are most common in the Central Plains and the southeastern United States, they have been reported in all 50 states and they are Georgia’s No. 1 weather-related killer. 

Planning and practicing specifically how and where you take shelter is a matter of survival. Tornadoes can occur at any time of day or night and at any time of the year, making advance preparation vital.

An active Tornado Watch means Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss your emergency plans and check supplies and your safe room. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.=

Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. There is imminent danger to life and property. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area (around the size of a city or small county) that may be impacted by a tornado identified by a forecaster on radar or by a trained spotter/law enforcement who is watching the storm

For tips on preparing for a tornado, what to do during a tornado, and steps to take after a tornado, visit the links attached to this story on wnegradio.com.