Tornadoes

A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that is connected to a cloud and making contact with the ground. Tornadoes can be incredibly destructive, with wind speeds in excess of 200 mph possible. Tornadoes are generally associated with the spring months, but they can also happen any time of year in North Texas. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long. Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that little, if any, advance warning is possible. Before a tornado hits, the wind may die down and the air may become very still. A cloud of debris can mark the location of a tornado even if a funnel is not visible. 

When the National Weather Service issues a tornado watch or a tornado warning, it is important to understand the differences between the two:

Tornado Watch:

A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form. If the National Weather Service issues a tornado watch, remain alert and monitor the weather in the event of announcements. 

Tornado Warning:

A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted or radar indicates rotation in the clouds. If the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning for Tarrant County, take the following actions:

If you are in a structure:

• Go to a pre-designated area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or lowest building level. In most buildings on campus, there are Shelter Area signs on the restrooms and pre-designated shelter areas.
• If there is no basement, go to the center of a small interior room on the lowest level away from corners, windows, doors and exterior walls.
• Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
• Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck
• Do not open windows.

If you are outside with no shelter:

• Avoid vehicles! Don’t try and outrun a tornado in your car. Instead, follow these steps:
• Seek shelter in a sturdy building if one is available.
• If shelter isn’t available, find a low-lying area (ditch, ravine, etc), lay flat on your stomach and cover your head with your hands.

In all situations:

• Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
• Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.
• Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes the most fatalities.