Tornado Myths and Truths

Since tornado season has just begun, I thought that you may be interested in these facts AND non-facts.

myth: Areas near lakes, rivers and mountains are safe from tornadoes.

TRUTH: NO PLACE IS SAFE FROM TORNADOES. A TORNADO NEAR YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK LEFT A PATH OF DESTRUCTION UP AND DOWN A 10,000 FOOT MOUNTAIN.

myth: The low pressure with a tornado causes buildings to "explode" as the tornado passes overhead.

TRUTH: VIOLENT WINDS AND DEBRIS SLAMMING INTO BUILDINGS CAUSE MOST STRUCTURAL DAMAGE.

myth: Windows should be opened before a tornado approaches to equalize pressure and minimize damage.

TRUTH: LEAVE THE WINDOWS ALONE! THE MOST IMPORTANT ACTION IS TO IMMEDIATELY GO TO A SAFE SHELTER.

myth: If you are driving and a tornado is sighted, you should turn and drive at right angles to the storm.

TRUTH: THE BEST THING TO DO IS TO SEEK THE BEST AVAILABLE SHELTER. MANY PEOPLE ARE INJURED OR KILLED WHEN REMAINING IN THEIR VEHICLES.

myth: People caught in the open should seek shelter under highway overpasses.

TRUTH: TAKE SHELTER IN A STURDY REINFORCED BUILDING IF AT ALL POSSIBLE. OVERPASSES, DITCHES AND CULVERTS MAY PROVIDE LIMITED PROTECTION FROM A TORNADO, BUT YOUR RISK WILL BE GREATLY REDUCED BY MOVING INSIDE A STRONG BUILDING.

VLE-B