Severe Weather: Tornadoes

Grab Toto!! Texas averages 125 tornadoes per year, which is more than any other state. 3PM-9PM is when tornadoes are most likely to occur. Tornadoes are most likely to occur during the Spring and Summer months. Spring & Summer are considered tornado seasons.

Where do they come from? Tornadoes come from the energy released in a thunderstorm. What makes them dangerous (as compared to hurricanes) is that their energy is concentrated in a small area, only a hundred yards across

How long is a tornado usually on the ground? Can range from a few seconds to several hours ... 5 minutes is average How fast do tornadoes move? Movement can range from virtually stationary to more than 60 miles per hour ... Average is 10-20 miles per hour.

Watch—means conditions are favorable for tornado to develop Warning—means that tornado has been spotted

LOOK OUT! When a tornado watch or warning is issued, keep an eye out for the following signs: Dark, often greenish sky A wall cloud – A heavy, lowering cloud that is rain free and may begin to rotate Large hail A loud roar, similar to a freight train

Safety Tips When Encountering a Tornado Designate a shelter area in your home or place of business, where you can take cover during severe weather. If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Make sure to stay away from windows. Lower-level interior bathrooms provide good protection. Avoid cars. Don’t try to outrun a tornado in your car. Leave it immediately and seek shelter in a sturdy building. Watch out Tornadoes can develop very quickly. Sometimes advance warning is not possible. Remain alert for signs of an approaching tornado and watch for flying debris.

For more information on what to do during a tornado go to: https://knowhat2do.com/severe-weather/storms/