Tornado Season Has Arrived

Monday's tornado watch is reminder that we need to have a plan of action now that tornado season has arrived in Georgia.

According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory of the NOAA, tornadoes come from the energy released in a thunderstorm. As powerful as they are, tornadoes account for only a tiny fraction of the energy in a thunderstorm. What makes them dangerous is that their energy is concentrated in a small area, perhaps only a hundred yards across.

“March 1 marks the beginning of Georgia’s official tornado season, and we want to ensure that all residents are prepared for the violent nature of tornadoes,” said Charley English, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA)/Homeland Security director. “Tornadoes are a real threat in Georgia, no matter where in the state you live.”

Once a tornado touches ground, it will stay for usually no more than 20 minutes. It can touch ground several times in different areas. In seconds the high winds can uproot trees and turn seemingly harmless objects into deadly weapons.

The GEMA offers the following tornado preparation tips:

• Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify tornado hazards: a tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area; a tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted in your area, and you need to take shelter immediately.
• Determine in advance where you will take shelter in case of a tornado warning.
• Prepare a Ready kit of emergency supplies, including a first aid kit, NOAA Weather Radio and a three-day supply of food and water.

What to do if a tornado has been spotted or you hear tornado sirens:

• If local authorities issue a tornado warning or if you see a funnel cloud, take shelter immediately.
• Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.
• If underground shelter is not available, go into an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
• In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
• Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they attract debris.
• A vehicle, trailer or mobile home does not provide good protection. Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible.
• If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
• Stay in the shelter location until the danger has passed.

What to do following a tornado:

• Local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official news and instructions as they become available.
• After a tornado, be sure to remain out of damaged buildings and stay clear of downed power lines.
• Help injured or trapped people. Check on others who may require special assistance, such as the elderly, children and people with disabilities.

For more information on preparing for severe weather, contact your local EMA or visit www.ready.ga.gov or www.gema.ga.gov.