Tornadoes

Well friends, we are all still here! However, disasters will continue to happen as we are seeing with these devastating tornadoes. I'm taking a time out from food storage this week to post about tornadoes so we can all be prepared!

Tornadoes

…a great whirlwind shall be raised up… -Jer. 25:32

These violent whirlwinds are unpredictable and deadly. And contrary to popular belief, tornadoes can happen anywhere at any time, not just 'Tornado Alley' in the spring.

A "tornado watch" means that a storm has the potential to turn into a tornado. A "tornado warning" means that a tornado is on its way to your area. Tornadoes have an eye like a hurricane in that you may experience a period of no wind in the middle of the storm. However, tornado eyes are only a foot to several yards wide and the funnel so irregular that you may only have a few moments reprieve compared to possibly 30 minutes of calm in the eye of a hurricane. 

Before a tornado:

Ø  If tornadoes are prevalent in your area, have a stocked storm cellar including battery operated radio, flashlights, blankets, first aid kit, nonperishable food items and water

Ø  Hold drills with your family so everyone knows where to go and what to do

Ø  Listen to official watches and warnings to be sure you know when to take cover

Ø  If you spot a tornado call local law enforcement or weather services if you can

During a tornado:

4  Once the warning is announced go immediately with your family into your basement or storm shelter. If you do not have a storm shelter, go to a small room in the center of your house and get in the corner or go in the bathroom and get in the tub.

4  Stay away from windows.

4  Get under something sturdy to protect yourself from flying debris (like a mattress or a table).

4  Do not stay in a mobile home.

4  If you are at work, school, or a store go to a hallway in the center of the building on the lowest floor; avoid large rooms or auditoriums.

4  If you are outside on foot or in your car, try to travel in a path perpendicular to that of the tornado; if you have to take shelter, lie flat on the ground in a ditch or depression against the side of the oncoming tornado.

After a tornado:

8  Assess damages and check for injuries.

8  Turn off your gas if you suspect a leak.

8  Use caution when entering buildings and watch out for debris.

8  Continue to listen to the news for information and respond as you would after an earthquake.

Good luck to us all! And our prayers and best wishes to the families in the Midwest!