Tornadoes

Texas averages 125 tornadoes every year- more than any other state. Oklahoma comes in second with an average of 57 per year. Twisters can occur at any time of year but spring and summer are considered tornado season around here. And while tornadoes can happen at any time of day, they’re most likely to occur between 3 and 9 p.m. So when your afternoon talk show or evening sitcom is interrupted for a tornado watch or warning—pay attention and don’t go outside!

• Dark, often greenish sky
• Wall Cloud
• Large Hail
• Loud roar; similar to a freight train

Caution:

• Some tornadoes appear as a visible funnel extending only partially to the ground.
• Look for signs of debris below the visible funnel.
• Tornadoes can be obscured by rain or nearby low-hanging clouds.

Tornado Safety Tips:

• In a home or building, move to a predesignated shelter. The best option is the lowest level, most interior room of the building. Interior (no windows) bathrooms on the first floor are typically a good option. The plumbing in the walls of the bathroom will provide some additional protection.
• Stay away from windows
• Don’t try to outrun a tornado in your car - leave it immediately and seek shelter in a sturdy building.
• If possible, leave mobile homes and seek shelter at a sturdier structure before a storm arrives.
• If no shelter is available, get out of vehicles and find the most low-lying area (ditch, ravine, etc.) lay flat on your stomach and cover your head with your hands.
• Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that advance warning is not possible. Remain alert for signs of an approaching tornado and watch for flying debris.