Know the Warning Signs of Tornadoes During a Hurricane

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricanes Can Create Favorable Conditions for Tornadoes

The thought of a tornado touching down in a community during a hurricane is frightening. Most people have seen movies or tv shows where tornadoes have caused significant storm damage. 

Watching it in action on the big screen is disheartening enough, let alone experiencing the situation first-hand. If you have not experienced a tornado, it is necessary to understand how to identify them and react appropriately. Your safety and others depend on your ability to identify tornadoes.

The Signs

Perhaps the most well-known characteristic of a tornado is a funnel cloud. During violent hurricanes, meteorologists observe the development of favorable conditions for tornadoes. Classic signs of an impending tornado include dark skies, large hail pieces, and a dark sky that appears green. People who have witnessed actual tornadoes tend to report a similar claim of hearing a loud noise that resembles a train outside the window. The tornado itself is a rotational cloud that forms in the sky and may or may not touch down. If the rotating funnel cloud loses formation, it can develop again or create an additional funnel cloud without warning. This is important to remember if the clouds appear to diminish. As always, stay informed during a storm by turning on an emergency weather radio, listening for warning sirens, and activating severe weather alerts on your smartphone. 

Seek Shelter

Understanding the apparent signs of a tornado is dire for safety. Seek immediate shelter in the lowest-lying area of the home or business, such as a basement. Avoid windows and glass doors as they could shatter. For added protection, cover your head with pillows or another soft material. Everyday household objects can become airborne and cause interior property damage and bodily harm.

Tornadoes can be eerily fascinating, we strongly discourage driving your vehicle towards a twister to photograph the tornado, as this could be a fatal mistake. Tornadoes cause destruction, injuries, and can wipe out miles of communities. It is crucial to recognize that personal safety is the top priority. Since violent storms, such as hurricanes, can spawn tornadoes with little or no warning, identifying the warning signs can save a life.

As a storm and water damage restoration leader, SERVPRO of Greater Carrollwood / Citrus Park has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home or business to its pre-storm condition. Call today at (813) 694-9085. We are here for you 24/7, 7 days