Tornado Preparedness Guide for the Midwest

Understanding Tornadoes: The Basics

Before diving into preparedness strategies, it’s essential to understand what tornadoes are and why they’re so dangerous. A tornado is a violently rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground. These storms can produce winds exceeding 200 mph, capable of leveling homes, uprooting trees, and tossing vehicles like toys.

In the Midwest, tornado season typically peaks in spring and early summer (April through June), but tornadoes can occur year-round under the right conditions (and I have seen a tornado during the 2010 - 2011 New Year Tornado Outbreak in Missouri). Understanding the science behind these storms—and recognizing warning signs—can help you stay safe when disaster strikes.

I personally grew up in a 'Tornado Alley' state (Missouri) and am familiar with the dangers tornados pose. I have seen tornadoes, Luckily most of my encounters with them have been from a safe distance. However, I was nearly 'struck' by a tornado in spring 2013 when I did some amateur storm chasing with a friend from work. Luckily, we made it out alive, but we learned our lesson. Mother nature is no joke, and we should not be flippant in life, especially where natural and security hazards are concerned.

However, as humans endowed with creativity, we have the ability to exert some control over nature, or in the case of tornados, afford ourselves protections. We are not helpless, but we should not be careless.

Signs of an Approaching Tornado

Knowing the warning signs of an impending tornado can give you precious minutes to seek shelter. Here are some key indicators:

1. Dark, Greenish Sky : This unusual coloration in the clouds often precedes a tornado and signals the presence of large hail or debris in the storm. When you see the sky turn into that unusual, unworldly color, that means find shelter!

2. Large Hail : Tornadoes frequently accompany hailstorms. If hail starts falling, take cover immediately.

3. Rotating Clouds : Look for funnel-shaped clouds descending from the sky. Even if the funnel hasn’t touched down yet, it could be forming into a tornado.

4. Loud Roar : Many survivors describe the sound of a tornado as similar to a freight train or jet engine. If you hear this noise, take over quickly!

5. Sudden Calm After a Storm : Sometimes, there’s an eerie calm before a tornado hits. Don’t mistake this lull for safety—it may mean the storm is intensifying nearby.

6. Debris Falling from the Sky : Flying objects, such as branches or shingles, indicate strong winds and potential danger. The debris from the tornado and high winds are the killers.

Pro Tip: Always check on on official alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) via NOAA Weather Radios, smartphone apps, or local news channels. Technology provides advanced warnings that visual cues alone cannot match. In later posts, I will strongly encourage you to obtain those devices or apps.

How to Prepare for a Tornado

Preparation is your best defense against tornadoes. By taking proactive measures now, you can minimize risks and protect yourself and your loved ones. Again, community is IMPORTANT! No man or woman, by him or herself is an island. In fact, if you live in a tight knit community, whether it be a rural town, a subdivision on the outskirts of a metropolitan area, a university dorm (especially in a rural or small town campus in Tornado Alley), or your intentional community if you are part of one, you should plan with others on how to prepare and survive these lethal storms.

1. Create a Family Emergency Plan

Every household should have a detailed plan outlining what to do during a tornado. Key components include:

• Identifying safe shelters in your home (basements, storm cellars, or interior rooms without windows).

• Designating meeting points outside the home in case family members get separated.

• Practicing drills regularly so everyone knows exactly where to go and what to do (Important! And I will go more into this in a later post)

2. Build an Emergency Kit

Your kit should contain essentials to sustain you for at least 72 hours. Include:

• Non-perishable food and bottled or contained potable water

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• First aid supplies

• Medications

• Important documents (stored in waterproof containers)

• Blankets and warm clothing

• Battery-powered radio or hand-crank radio

3. Reinforce Your Home

While nothing can completely tornado-proof a house, certain upgrades can reduce damage:

• Install impact-resistant windows or shutters.

• Secure loose outdoor items (like patio furniture) that could become projectiles.

• Consider building a safe room or reinforcing your basement.

And if you are not confident that your basement or interior rooms can protect you from a tornado, you can always install a storm shelter.

4. Stay Informed

Invest in a NOAA Weather Radio to receive real-time updates. I strongly recommend owning at least three battery powered and hand-crank radios. You can also download apps like FEMA or weather apps for additional notifications. Sign up for community alert systems to ensure you never miss critical information.

What to Do During a Tornado

When a tornado warning is issued, every second counts. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of survival:

At Home

• Move to your designated safe area immediately.

• Cover yourself with blankets or mattresses to shield against flying debris.

• Avoid windows, doors, and exterior walls.

In a Vehicle

If caught in a car during a tornado:

• Do NOT try to outrun the storm. Instead, pull over and find the nearest sturdy building.

• As a last resort, lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area, covering your head and neck.

• Avoid highway overpasses. They are actually the least safe places to be and will make you more vulnerable to flying debris or possible structure collapse of the overpass. You are better off finding a ditch or low-lying ground to duck in.

Outdoors

If you’re outside with no shelter available:

• Seek the lowest possible ground, such as a ditch or ravine.

• Protect your head and neck with your arms and any available materials (like a jacket).

• If you can, see if you can seek shelter in a building, or someone's home. This is why establishing good relations with neighbors and people in your community is crucial.

After the Tornado Passes

Once the storm has passed, proceed cautiously. Danger doesn’t end when the winds die down.

Immediate Actions

• Check yourself and others for injuries. Administer first aid if necessary.

• Use caution when exiting your shelter; avoid stepping on fallen power lines or entering damaged buildings.

• Listen to emergency broadcasts for further instructions.

Assessing Damage

• Document any property damage with photos for insurance claims.

• Contact utility companies to report outages or hazards.

Emotional Recovery and Community Rapport

Surviving a tornado can be traumatic. Reach out to mental health professionals or support groups if needed. Encourage open conversations with family members, friends, or people in the community about their feelings. This is also an important for community building, and developing a level of care and agape for your fellow man in the event of a crisis. No man or woman is an island. We are all in this together!

Conclusion: Stay Prepared, Stay Safe

Tornadoes are a fact of life in the Midwest, but preparation can make all the difference. By educating yourself on warning signs, creating a solid emergency plan, mental and emotional preparation, and staying informed, you can significantly increase your chances of surviving unscathed. Remember, the goal isn’t just to survive—it’s to thrive afterward. Take action today to safeguard your family and property, because when it comes to tornadoes, being ready isn’t optional—it’s essential.