Houston: Tornado Town or Tornado Tourist Spot?
Let’s talk twisters, folks! Specifically, the kind that touch down in Houston. Now, before you start picturing Dorothy and Toto getting whisked away by a funnel cloud, let’s clear the air: Houston doesn’t exactly qualify as "tornado central." But
The Tornado Tally
On average, Houston sees about three tornadoes per year. That might sound like a lot, but trust me, it's more like a gentle breeze compared to some parts of the
Now, don’t get cocky. While strong tornadoes are rare, they can and do happen. Houston has had its fair share of close calls and even a few direct hits. So, while you might not need a storm shelter in your backyard, it's always a good idea to know where the nearest safe room is.
Tornado Season in Houston
You might be wondering when exactly these twisters like to make an appearance. Well, tornado season in Houston typically runs from March to June. But hey, let’s not rule out a surprise visit outside those months. Mother Nature loves to keep us on our toes.
How to Stay Safe
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be aware of the signs of a tornado.
- Have a Plan: Know where to go and what to do if a tornado warning is issued.
- Build a Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with supplies like water, food, flashlights, and a first-aid kit.
- Secure Your Home: Take steps to secure your home, such as trimming trees and installing storm shutters.
- Practice Safety Drills: Familiarize yourself and your family with tornado safety procedures.
Remember: Even if you’re not a tornado magnet, it’s always better to be prepared than sorry. So, stay weather-aware, stay safe, and maybe invest in a really good umbrella. Just in case.
How-To Tornado Tips
- How to stay calm during a tornado warning? Deep breaths, find a safe spot, and remember, it’s just wind.
- How to prepare your home for tornado season? Secure loose items, trim trees, and invest in storm shutters if possible.
- How to build an emergency tornado kit? Include water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and a weather radio.
- How to identify the signs of a tornado? Look for dark, greenish skies, a large, dark low-cloud, and a loud roaring sound.
- How to find a safe place during a tornado? Go to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.