Austin Texas Real Estate Blog

One of the most frightening of the natural phenomena, the tornado is capable of devastating wind speeds of more than 300 miles per hour and can appear with terrifying suddenness. Most tornadoes contain winds speeds of between 65 and 100 miles per hour. Still, no other weather event can cause quite the destruction and death of a strong tornado and one would be well advised to take tornado watches and warnings very seriously.

Should you hear report of a tornado watch or warning, stay close to a news source for more information. A watch means weather conditions are right for a tornado forming. A warning means that an actual funnel cloud has been sighted by either an eyewitness or weather radar equipment. If you hear a warning, you should be prepared to take cover.

Contrary to popular myths, the underside of a highway overpass is not the best place to take cover from an approaching tornado. The overpass serves as a wind tunnel, effectively increasing the wind speed thereby raising the chance for serious injury or death to anyone who tries to shelter under one.

The safest place from an approaching tornado at home is the corner of a basement, under a strong table or staircase; or a windowless room, such as a bathroom or closet. If caught out in the open, your best chances of survival is in a ditch or culvert, face down, with hands clasped over the back of your neck. If you’re in a vehicle, don’t try to outrun the storm. Leave the vehicle and hit the ditch!