Guest post by Kathryn Dunmore, Red Cross blogger
Summer brings warmer weather but also an increase in frequency of tornado warnings and watches. On average, Canada gets 62 tornadoes a year and they can have devastating effects on homes and communities. Do you know the difference between a tornado watch and warning? Are you prepared if there is a tornado in your region?
Tornado facts
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Before
Summer brings warmer weather but also an increase in frequency of tornado warnings and watches. On average, Canada gets 62 tornadoes a year and they can have devastating effects on homes and communities. Do you know the difference between a tornado watch and warning? Are you prepared if there is a tornado in your region?
Tornado facts
- A tornado is a vortex of violently rotating winds, often forming a funnel shaped cloud that is capable of damaging property and injuring people
- Tornadoes typically occur in southern Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, the interior of British Columbia and western New Brunswick
- June and July tend to be peak seasons due to weather conditions
- Two thirds of Canadians have not taken steps to prepare for a disaster like a tornado
- A tornado watch means the potential exists for the development of tornadoes. With a tornado watch, you should keep up to date on current weather situations and be prepared for an occurrence.
- A tornado warning requires more immediate action and should be taken seriously. We’ve included some tips on what to do to prepare before, during and after an emergency such as a tornado.
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Before
- Find a place where family members can gather if there is a tornado warning. Keep this spot clutter free
- Identify a place in a hallway in the centre of the building if you are in a high-rise building. Check if there is a building emergency plan by talking to your building superintendent or manager
- Watch for danger signs:
- Dark, often greenish or orange-grey skies
- Large hail
- Large, dark, low-lying, rotating or funnel-shaped clouds
- Roaring noise – similar to the sound of a freight train
- Move your family to your safe location, such as a basement or lower level of the building
- Lie flat in a ditch or a low-lying area if you are outside and there is no shelter nearby
- Get out immediately and head for safety if you are in a car or mobile home. It is unsafe to stay in your vehicle as it could be picked up, blown over or roll over you
- Stay away from damaged areas and fallen power lines
- Listen to the radio for further information and instructions
- Inspect your home for damage once your home has been declared safe to re-enter
