Twister in the Big Apple? You Gotta Be Kidding Me!
New York City: the land of yellow cabs, towering skyscrapers, and... tornadoes? Yep, you read that right. While it might sound as likely as a penguin sighting in Central Park, the Big Apple has actually had its fair share of twisters.
The Windy City of the East?
You’re probably thinking, “Tornadoes? In New York? Are you high on a slice of pizza?” Well, while it’s definitely not a regular occurrence, it does happen. The city has been hit by a few tornadoes over the years, with the most notable one being the 2007 Brooklyn tornado. This bad boy was an EF2, which means it was strong enough to do some serious damage. Luckily, no one was killed, but it caused millions of dollars worth of destruction.
So, what causes these freak weather events in a city that’s more known for its humidity than its hurricanes? Well, it’s all about those pesky weather systems. Sometimes, when a cold front meets a warm, moist air mass, it can create the perfect conditions for a tornado to form. And trust me, when nature decides to throw a hissy fit, even the concrete jungle can't escape.
Tornado Preparedness: A New York Minute Guide
Okay, so you’re probably not going to build a storm shelter in your apartment, but there are a few things you can do to stay safe in case a tornado does decide to pay NYC a visit.
- Know the signs: Learn to recognize the signs of a tornado, like dark, greenish skies, a loud roar, or a large, dark cloud.
- Have a plan: Decide where you'll go if a tornado warning is issued. The lowest level of a sturdy building is usually the safest place to be.
- Stay informed: Keep a weather radio handy and stay tuned to local news for updates.
How to Survive a Tornado in a High-Rise
Just kidding! But hey, it's fun to think about, right?
How to stay calm during a tornado warning? Deep breaths and remember, most likely, nothing will happen.How to explain a tornado to a New Yorker? "It's like a hurricane, but smaller, angrier, and way more likely to toss your pizza." How to prepare your apartment for a tornado? Invest in some really strong magnets to keep your fridge door closed.How to find a tornado shelter in Central Park? Good luck with that one.How to make a tornado-themed cocktail? Vodka, blue curaçao, and dry ice. Don't try this at home.