Tornado Season is Approaching; Are You Ready

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Tornado season is impending; are you prepared?

Most tornadoes occur in April, May, June, and July between 3pm-7pm in Allegan, MI. The average tornado is grounded for less than 10 minutes and travels about 5 miles. A typical tornado as it touches the ground average 200 to 400 yards, averaging winds of 71-125 mph in Michigan. The following are some tips to make sure you and your family stay safe during a tornado:

Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. 

Tornado Watch - is issued to alert people to the possibility of tornado development in your area. 

Tornado Warning - is issued when a tornado has actually been sighted or is indicated by radar. 

Environmental clues to look out for:

• Dark, often greenish skies 
• Wall cloud
• Large hail
• Loud roar; similar to a freight train

Where you should take shelter during a tornado.

In a home - the basement offers the greatest safety. Seek shelter under sturdy furniture if possible. In homes without a basement, take cover in the center part of the house, on the lowest floor, in a small room (closet or bathroom) without windows. 

In a mobile home - the home should be evacuated, and shelter should be taken in a prearranged substantial shelter. If nearby shelter is not available, leave the home and lie flat in a ditch or ravine. Protect your head by placing your arms over it. Do not take shelter under your home. 

Driving a vehicle - get out of the vehicle and take shelter in a nearby ditch or ravine, do not get under the vehicle. Lie flat and put your arms over your head. 

At work or school - follow prepared plans to move to interior hallways or small rooms on the lowest floor. Avoid areas with windows or glass. 

In open country - lie in a gully, ditch, or low spot on the ground and hold onto something on the ground, if possible. Do not seek shelter in a damaged buildings as they may collapse. 

Have an emergency plan and kit in place.

Each tornado season, review with your family your emergency plan and practice it. Make sure to put together an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, extra batteries, battery-operated radio, first-aid kit, can opener, canned food, bottles water, and extra clothes.

If your home suffers from storm damage, call SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry/Van Buren Counties, we are Here to Help, 269-686-0664