Good news about tornadoes in Oklahoma? There are many ways you can prepare for them. The not-so-good news? According to an Oklahoma research scientist, tornadoes can occur when you least expect them.
“While Oklahoma is known for its frequent tornado activity, especially in spring, there is technically no ‘tornado season,’ because tornadoes can happen any time of year,” says Justin Sharpe, Ph.D., research scientist at the Cooperative Institute for Severe and High Impact Weather Research and Operations at the University of Oklahoma. “While it’s true that tornadoes are more common in the spring, particularly in April and May, due to the specific weather conditions that occur then, tornadoes can form during other seasons as well.”
Sharpe gives a few more reasons why tornadoes can happen anytime:
1. Unpredictable weather patterns: Tornadoes form when specific conditions are met; typically, a combination of warm, moist air, and cool, dry air that creates atmospheric instability. These conditions can occur in any season.
2. Other seasonal outbreaks: While spring is the most common time for tornadoes, they can, and do, occur during other months. In fact, tornadoes have been recorded in Oklahoma during the summer, fall and even winter.
Is it possible, then, for an Oklahoma resident to prepare their home for a tornado?
“This is a complex question that varies depending on the type of home you are in, as well as if you own or rent property,” says Sharpe. “Different home types – like single-family homes, mobile homes and apartment buildings – require specific strategies to minimize tornado damage.”
He offers some advice on how to prepare these various home types.
Single-Family Homes
Designate a safe room: If possible, install a reinforced safe room or storm shelter in a basement or underground. If that’s not feasible, designate an interior room on the lowest level of the home – like a bathroom, closet or hallway – away from windows and exterior walls.
Reinforce the roof: Strengthen the roof to the frame with hurricane straps or clips to prevent uplift during strong winds. This is particularly important for homes with a pitched roof.
Secure outdoor items: Bring in any outdoor furniture, grills or other items that could become projectiles.
Invest time in tree maintenance: Trim trees and remove any dead or weak branches that could fall on the house during strong winds.
Mobile or Manufactured Homes
Anchor the mobile or manufactured home: Use tie-downs and anchors around the frame rails to prevent movement or damage during high winds.
Designate an emergency shelter: Always have a nearby storm shelter or community shelter to go to if a tornado warning is issued. If the forecast becomes local, move to your safe space.
Apartment or Multi-Unit Dwellings
Identify your safe space and determine the safest spots in the building: These are usually interior rooms or hallways on the lowest level. Avoid areas with windows and exterior walls.
“By tailoring these precautions to the specific type of home and staying vigilant, you’ll increase your chances of staying safe during a tornado,” says Sharpe.
Staying Safe
New to Oklahoma or just want to brush up on your tornado safety? We offer a few suggestions.
- Stay Informed: Always keep on top of weather conditions and updates from meteorologists, especially during tornado season.
- Have an Emergency Plan: Create and practice an emergency plan for your family or household before tornadoes strike.
- Create An Emergency Kit: Always keep a bag on hand with water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies and important documents.
