A tornado is a violently rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm down to the ground. These powerful storms cause widespread devastation and present extreme danger to anyone caught in their path.
The Immediate Impact
Wind speeds within a tornado can range from 65 to over 200 miles per hour, with the most violent tornadoes potentially reaching up to 300 mph. These intense winds can tear roofs from buildings, flatten walls, and even render vehicles airborne.
Debris becomes a significant threat, as the powerful winds transform ordinary objects into deadly projectiles. Wood, metal, glass, and household items can be propelled at high speeds, leading to severe injuries such as blunt force trauma, deep lacerations, and impalement. This flying debris is often the primary cause of fatalities and injuries during a tornado.
Rapid changes in atmospheric pressure also contribute to the destructive power. The sudden drop in pressure within the tornado can cause structures to experience a pressure differential, leading to outward “explosion” of walls or roofs. This pressure change can also cause a sensation of ears “popping” for individuals nearby.
Structural collapse is a common and devastating consequence, as homes, businesses, and other buildings can disintegrate. Walls may buckle, foundations can shift, and entire sections of a building might collapse, trapping or severely injuring occupants. There is also a risk of being lifted or thrown by the powerful rotating winds, which can result in severe injuries upon impact with the ground or other objects.
Survival Strategies During the Event
Seeking immediate shelter is essential when a tornado is imminent. If indoors, the safest location is an underground shelter, a basement, or a designated safe room. Lacking these, an interior room without windows on the lowest floor, such as a hallway, bathroom, or closet, provides a more protected space. Individuals should get under something sturdy like a heavy table or workbench.
If caught outdoors, or if a sturdy building is not accessible, lying flat in a ditch, culvert, or other low-lying area away from trees and vehicles can offer some protection. Cover the head and neck with arms, a blanket, or anything available to shield against flying debris. Wearing a helmet, if accessible, provides head protection.
Vehicles offer minimal protection from a tornado and should be abandoned if a sturdy shelter is nearby. If escape is not possible, staying in the vehicle with the seatbelt on, getting as low as possible, and covering the head with hands or a blanket is advised. Avoid seeking shelter under highway overpasses or bridges, as these can create a dangerous wind tunnel effect.
Remaining as low to the ground as possible and staying still until the immediate danger has passed minimizes exposure to flying debris and the force of the wind. Also avoid windows entirely, as glass can shatter and turn into dangerous projectiles, and opening them can actually increase damage to a structure.
Post-Tornado Immediate Actions
Once the immediate threat of the tornado passes, checking for injuries is the first priority. Assess yourself and others nearby for any wounds, administering basic first aid. For serious injuries, seek immediate medical assistance and avoid moving severely injured individuals unless they are in further danger.
If trapped, attract attention, such as yelling, tapping on pipes or walls, or using a whistle or flashlight to signal rescuers. Using a cloth or mask to cover the mouth, nose, and eyes protects against dust and debris in the air.
Be aware of and avoid further hazards in the aftermath, including downed power lines and potential gas leaks. Unstable structures pose a significant risk of secondary collapse, so re-entering damaged buildings should be avoided until authorities declare them safe. Broken glass, nails, and other sharp objects will likely be scattered, requiring caution.
Stay informed by listening to emergency broadcasts. If trapped under debris, try to clear a path to safety without causing additional collapse. Use phones for emergency calls only; text messages or social media can communicate with family and help keep lines clear for urgent communications.