WEATHER

Signs to know if a tornado is coming your way

Across the US communities have set up systems to give people a heads up for when a twister could strike. But there are ways to know even without them.

Nirmalendu Majumdar/Ames Tribunevia REUTERS

Springtime into summer are when the threat of tornadoes is most present. However, the powerful natural phenomena can occur anytime of year if the weather conditions are right. Thanks to modern meteorology, these days forecasters are able to give people warnings sooner and thus far more time to take cover from these dangerous and destructive vortexes.

While most US communities are equipped with systems, like radio and mobile alerts along with sirens, to give advance warning of an approaching tornado there may be times where you may find yourself out of range or without access. Thus, it is essential to be able to recognise the warning signs of a twister and take appropriate action to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Here are some signs to look out for if a tornado is coming your way:

If the sky appears to be an unusual shade of green, it may be a sign that a tornado is approaching. This is caused by the presence of hail and other debris in the storm clouds, which can scatter sunlight in a way that gives the sky a green tint. Large hailstones are often present in the storms that produce tornadoes. If you see hailstones that are larger than a coin, it may be a sign that a tornado is on its way.

If you see clouds that appear to be rotating or moving in a circular motion, it may be a sign that a twister is forming. One specificity, a wall cloud, is usually located beneath the base of a thunderstorm and can be an indication that a tornado is forming. If you see a wall cloud, seek shelter immediately.

If the wind suddenly changes direction and starts to blow in a circular pattern, it may be a sign that a potentially deadly vortex is approaching. Sometimes, the wind may suddenly stop and the air may become very still just before a tornado strikes.

Communities in tornado hotspots have outdoor warning sirens that are used to alert people to the presence of a tornado. If you hear a siren, take shelter immediately. Other sounds that indicate a tornado is nearby is a loud, continuous roaring sound that has been compared to the sound of a freight train. If you hear this sound, take shelter immediately.

Keeping safe in a tornado

If you are under a tornado warning, there are a number of actions that can be taken to keep you and your loved ones safe. The number one thing you should do is seek shelter, preferrably in the lowest, most structurally sound and central part of the house. This can also include taking shelter in an ICC 500 certified tornado shelter or a specially built safe room.

As well, it is not advisible to attempt to open windows to avoid getting hit by possible shattering glass. Other advice includes taking cover in a bathtub as well as lying under something protective, such as a mattress and wearing a helmet.

Not everyone will be indoors when a tornado strikes. If you are unable to get inside then seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine and abandoning your vehicle. Do not seek shelter under a bridge, as the embankments that support the overpass and the bridge itself create a wind-tunnel effect that can amplify the force of the wind.

While powerful tornadoes can rip apart or toss lighter structures through the air, the most powerfull can even crush solid structures, the real danger of a tornado for most is the debris flying through the air. The swirling cyclone of wind can whip up and hurl them through the air with incredible force turning them into deadly projectiles.

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