Tornado Safety

With the hot, humid summer days comes the threat of tornadoes.  Peter LaPorte, Director of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency advises that the citizens of Massachusetts be prepared if and when a tornado is sighted near their community.

Tornado frequency in the Commonwealth is at its highest during the months of July and August, and they are most probable in Worcester County and Western Massachusetts.  Tornadoes may occur any time, however, and in any part of the state if conditions are right.  Tornadoes are formed in moist, warm air and are associated with hail, wind and rain storms.  Squall lines may trigger the formation of numerous tornadoes in the atmosphere, their high winds and tremendous pressure changes cause severe damage to property and can result in a loss of life.

These short-lived storms are the most violent of all, and over a small area, the most destructive.  As a general rule, tornadoes move from southwest to northwest.  During periods of severe weather, you should keep radios or television sets tuned to local stations for information and advice.

A "tornado watch" is announced when tornadoes are expected in or near an area.

A "tornado warning" is issued when a tornado has actually been sighted.  When a warning is announced, take shelter immediately.

There is no guaranteed safe place during a tornado; however, some locations are better than others. the best protection is an underground shelter, basement or cave.  A substantial steel framed or reinforced concrete building also provides good protection.  If you are at home, go to your basement.  A corner, under the stairs, or under a sturdy workbench or table are the safest places in the basement. if your home has no basement, take cover in the central part of the house, on the lowest floor in a small room such as a closet or bathroom.  Stay away from windows to avoid flying debris.  Do not remain in a trailer or mobile home!  Take cover elsewhere.

If you are trapped outside, get as far below ground level as possible.  Seek shelter in a ditch, gully, ravine or culvert.  Even a low, spot in the ground will give you some protection.  Do not go near cars, trees or mobile homes; they are likely to blow over on you.  Remember to protect your head.

Most important of all, keep calm and think about what actions you need to take to keep you and your family safe.