Oklahoma experiences an average of 62 tornadoes each year, according to the Weather Channel. In fact, central Oklahoma has more tornadoes per square mile than any other location on Earth. Oklahoma tornadoes are so commonplace because of the proximity between the warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and the cold air from the Rockies and Canada. When the cold and warm fronts converge, a scary tornado may form.
At Cain Law, we have seen the destruction an Oklahoma tornado can leave in its wake. We have prepared these tornado safety tips to help you stay safe year-round.
Prevention Before the Storm
If you know that a storm is coming, you can take steps to be prepared, such as:
- Identifying a safe location in your home to go to in case of a tornado
- Assembling an emergency preparedness kit
- Identifying where to meet up with your household members if they are separated
- Downloading the Emergency App to get emergency alerts on your phone or other mobile device
- Preparing a pet emergency kit
- Removing damaged limbs from nearby trees
- Removing loose items in your yard
Know the Signs of a Tornado
Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. The National Weather Service issues a tornado watch when conditions are possible for a tornado to form. If there is a tornado watch, keep an eye on the sky and stay tuned to the weather station. You can get real-time updates on the weather through:
- NOAA Weather Radio All-Hazards
- Smartphone or tablet apps
- Outdoor warning sirens
The National Weather Service issues a tornado warning when a tornado has been detected. If you are in an area covered by a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately.
Atmospheric signs of an impending tornado include:
- Dark, sometimes greenish-colored clouds
- An approaching cloud of debris
- The formation of hail, sometimes when it is not raining
- A funnel shape
- A sudden silence
- A loud roar
What to Do in Case of a Tornado
If you are at home when a tornado forms:
- Go to your safe place or the lowest and most interior location of your home away from windows.
- Gather your family members and pets in your safe place.
- Cover your head.
If you are in a mobile home:
- Leave well in advance of severe weather.
- Go to your park’s designated shelter if there is one.
- Go to a nearby sturdy building.
If you are outdoors:
- Seek shelter in a nearby sturdy building, if possible.
- Avoid bridges or overpasses.
- Find shelter in a ditch or remain in your vehicle with your head covered.
Tornado Shelters
It is important to note that there are no public tornado shelters in Oklahoma City. If a tornado is imminent, do not risk trying to drive to a tornado shelter. If you have your own shelter, you can go to it. Residents can register the location of their storm shelters in OKC with the city ahead of time so that emergency responders know where to find you.
Please follow these tornado safety tips during the next storm. If you need any assistance with a personal injury matter, do not hesitate to contact Cain Law. We are available to take your call 24/7.
