In 2011 32 Tennesseans lost their lives due to tornadoes. Most of the fatalities occurred in the eastern part of the state during the terrible outbreak on April 27th.
Nationwide 1690 tornadoes were reported in 2011 which was the second highest total ever. 48 states had confirmed tornadoes last year which ties a record for the most states affected in one year. 550 Americans lost their lives due to tornadoes making 2011 the fourth deadliest year for tornadoes. There were 6 ef5 tornadoes in 2011. The ef5 total is second only to 1974 when there were 7 ef5 tornadoes. The estimated dollar loss from tornado damage in 2011 was $10 billion...The most ever in a single year.
Your safety depends on being constantly alert to the possibility of tornadoes from the thunderstorms that approach you. This is especially true during tornado watches. A careful lookout should be kept during any period of severe weather activity. Plan in advance where you will go and what you will do if a tornado threatens you.
Remember...A tornado watch means that tornado development is possible...So watch the sky for developing thunderstorms and all the hazards they bring. Stay tuned to NOAA weather radio...commercial radio or television for weather statements or warnings.
The watch gives you time to think about what you should do if a tornado approaches and alerts you to the fact that atmospheric conditions might favor the development of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. A watch might cover several thousand square miles over parts of one or more states.
A tornado warning, usually issued for 1 or 2 counties at a time, means that a tornado has been sighted...Or that one is likely based on radar. Persons in the path of the storm need to immediately find shelter, preferably in a sturdy building, below ground if possible.
Tornado safety rules
In homes or small buildings, go to the basement or to an interior room, such as a closet or bathroom, on the lowest level. Get under something sturdy such as a heavy table or a bed.
In mobile homes and vehicles, abandon them and go to a sturdy structure. If there is no such structure nearby, lie flat in a ditch, ravine, gully, culvert or low spot with your arms and hands shielding your head.
In large buildings, such as schools, factories, hospitals, nursing homes and shopping centers, go to the pre-designated shelter area. Interior hallways on the lowest floor are usually best. Stay away from rooms that are large in area because they have weakly supported roofs. In high-rise buildings, go to an interior small room or hallway.
Stay away from windows. Don't bother opening or closing them. It won't make any difference to the structure and you'll just waste time or put yourself at risk should glass break as you are near.
NOAA weather radio will carry information and safety tips all this week containing important safety rules that you can use to protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of severe weather.
Information provided by the National Weather Service.
Information provided by the National Weather Service.
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