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Public affairs: Tornado safety by Mattison Holland

Public affairs: Tornado safety by Mattison Holland
  • PublishedApril 19, 2022


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The damage paths accompanied by violent tornadoes are, in most cases, catastrophic. Although East Texas isn’t necessarily located in tornado alley, it is still of utmost importance that we know what to do in any situation regarding these raging clouds. The only way to truly be prepared for a tornado is to gather information and put it to the ultimate test. 

If you are sitting at home and suddenly hear a loud eerie screech coming from your phone it might just be a warning for you to look out your window and see what’s going on. It would also be a good idea to check the latest weather update. If it suggests a tornado warning in your area, you’ll need to take precautions and get into place. 

If your county is issued under a tornado watch you just need to stay updated and watch the weather cautiously. However, if your county is under a tornado warning that means a tornado is in occurrence, you need to take action and find shelter immediately.

In an article published by National Geographic it informs us that ¨Tornadoes form when warm, humid air collides with cold, dry air. The denser cold air is pushed over the warm air, usually producing thunderstorms. The warm air rises through the colder air, causing an updraft. The updraft will begin to rotate if winds vary sharply in speed or direction.¨ It also states “Every U.S. state has experienced twisters, but Texas holds the record: an annual average of 120.”

Although it doesn’t sound life-threatening, tornado warnings should not be taken lightly. In order to prepare for a tornado you should, first, seek shelter in a suitable building. If you are in a car, mobile home, or anything that could be destroyed you need to head to the nearest permanent structure for safety. 

If you cannot escape to a safer place of refuge, the American Red Cross reminds you how to take cover. “If strong winds and flying debris occur while driving, pull over and park, keeping your seat belt on and engine running. Put your head down below the windows, covering your head with your hands and a blanket.”

The next step you’ll need to take in case of a tornado warning is to head to a space without windows and glass, and you might be here for a while so gather any items you might need. You’ll want to be on the lowest level of whatever building you take cover in. Make sure any pets, children, etc are taking refuge as well.

If you are at home make sure all items outside that could be damaged or become a hazard are secured or put away. While you’re sitting in place, make sure to stay updated on weather broadcasts that concern your county.

“Once a tornado hits the ground, it may live for as little as a few seconds or as long as three hours. The average twister is about 660 feet wide and moves about 30 miles an hour. Most don’t travel more than six miles before dying out.”

“Massive tornadoes, however—the ones capable of widespread destruction and many deaths—can roar along as fast as 300 miles an hour,” says National Geographic in an article about tornadoes. 

Whenever a twister crosses paths near you and the reality of danger sets in, we tend to experience some kind of internal panic. However, in these conditions it’s crucial that we stay calm, alert, and ready for any situation at hand. 

If you are ever in the danger zone of a tornado make sure to stay put and do not go outside for any reason. Waiting for the tornado to fade can be difficult, but find something to occupy your mind while you wait.


In the aftermath of these destructive dust devils the damage can be anywhere from a small clean up to a weeks worth of picking up garbage and debris. The moment of truth awaits once your weather center declares your county safe from any possible tornados.  American Red Cross states ¨If evacuated, return only when authorities say it is safe to do so. Continue listening to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio for updated information and instructions.¨

Cleaning up the garbage left behind by tornadoes can be time consuming, and for some mourning a loved one was put on their list of grievances. Storms such as these can be traumatizing, but times like these are when society has to come together and piece back the damage that was done.

Even though these enraged windstorms instill fear and produce a great amount of  destruction, in a way they also bring communities together. The wreckage created by tornados makes room for mourning and a helping hand from a neighbor. These destructive funnel clouds seem to have their own “rainbow” once the storm subsides. Sometimes it takes strength and trust during chaotic circumstances to see that there is a way to prevail.                                           

In the season of tornados, the middle of March to the beginning of June, we have to be on our toes, ready for any unanticipated situations. Safety during these ferocious storms is key not only to our safety, but to our neighbors, family, and friends as well. So, next time you’re sitting on the couch watching tv and suddenly hear that awful screeching noise make sure you’re prepared to take immediate action. 

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By Mattison Holland 

Mattison Holland

Written By
Taylor Nye

Taylor Nye is the editor of Front Porch News. She has degrees from the University of Wisconsin in human biology, Latin American studies, and public health. She has previously worked at the Wisconsin State Journal, Tucson Weekly and Sulphur Springs News-Telegram. As a sixth generation Hopkins County resident, she loves celebrating our heritage and history.