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Tornado Preparedness in Houston

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. The most violent tornadoes are capable of tremendous destruction with wind speeds of 250 mph or more. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long. Tornadoes come in all shapes and sizes and can occur in Texas during the peak tornado season of April through June. A secondary season can occur in the fall. Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 and 9 pm, but have been known to occur at all hours of the day or night. The average tornado moves from southwest to northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction. The average forward speed is 30 mph but may vary from nearly stationary to 70 mph.	Tornado outside Anadarko, Okla, May 1999
Terms to know Tornado Watch: tornadoes are possible in our area, so remain alert for approaching storms. Tornado Warning: a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. If a tornado warning is issued for our area and the sky becomes threatening, move to your predesignated place of safety. Severe Thunderstorm Watch: severe thunderstorms are possible in our area. Severe Thunderstorm Warning: severe thunderstorms are occurring. It is important to remember, tornadoes occasionally develop during severe thunderstorm watches and warnings. Remain alert to signs of an approaching tornado and seek shelter if threatening conditions exist. Environmental clues Look out for: Dark, often greenish sky Wall cloud (see photo lower right) Large hail Loud roar similar to a freight train	Supercell—often associated with violent storms
If a Warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches: In a home or building, move to a predesignated shelter, such as a basement. If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor, and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Stay away from windows. Get out of automobiles. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car. Instead, leave it immediately. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned. Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that advance warning is not possible. Remain alert for signs of an approaching tornado. Flying debris from tornadoes cause most deaths and injuries.	Wall cloud forming

Disaster supply kit

• Three-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day) and food that won't spoil
• One change of clothing and footwear per person
• One blanket or sleeping bag per person
• First-aid kit, including prescription medicines
• Emergency tools, including a battery-powered portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries
• Extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash
• Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members

After the Tornado Passes

• Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area
• Listen to the radio for information and instructions
• Use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage
• Do not use candles at any time

Updated 05/23/06

Images courtesy of the NOAA photo library.