Disaster Rally

Tornado Warning VS Tornado Watch: What You Need To Know

When it comes to severe weather, nothing is as devastating as a tornado when you consider the inch to inch devastation. Tornados often possess stronger winds than hurricanes, and due to the cyclone shape of a tornado, it increases the damage potential. Tornados are also especially dangerous if you are in its path. A single tornado can take out a full town when powerful enough. Some areas of the country are more susceptible to tornados than others due to natural weather patterns. Wherever you live, it is important to know what the difference is between a tornado warning vs watch.

What Is a Tornado Warning?

When it comes to a tornado warning vs watch, you need to know what the difference is. As you’ll be watching television or listening to the radio, you might hear or see an announcement regarding a tornado warning or watch. You need to know what the difference is with regard to these two weather conditions. If you do not know the difference, then the result can be devastating. Many people have suffered unnecessarily because they did not take the right precautions beforehand. This is where we come in to help. 

With regards to a tornado warning, it means a tornado has developed and been identified in the area. When a tornado has been identified, it is from someone who has spotted a formed tornado, or it has been identified on radar.

With a tornado warning, it is important to get into place and execute your plan of action for when a tornado warning gets called. For some families, this means hunkering down in a safe space in their home, while for others it may mean coming indoors. 

When considering tornado warning vs watch, there are several categories of tornadoes you need to know about. When a tornado warning is given, you’ll be told not only the current category but the potential for it to grow or diminish based on current and forecast weather. Technically, there are six kinds of tornado categories you need to be made aware of and the possible damage each brings with it.

F0

This is the lowest level of a tornado. It brings with it wind speeds between 40 and 72 miles per hour. In terms of potential damage, some tree branches down, shallow-rooted trees ripped up from the ground, and damaged signposts are possible. Additionally, some chimney damage may be possible, but in general, it is not as serious as any of the other tornado categories.

F1

A category F1 tornado is the next step up. It brings wind speeds between 73 and 112 miles per hour. With regards to an F1 tornado, damage will be moderate. Some roofing and siding may be removed under the heavy wind, and mobile homes become more vulnerable at this point in time due to the lack of a secure structure (or any good way to direct wind away from the building). This is on top of the damaged caused by an F0. The high wind may also flip lighter cars and make it extremely difficult to handle.

In this type of tornado, you want to be in a safe area of your home so that you do not get hurt by any falling debris. 

F2

The next step up is the category 2, or an F2 tornado. This sees wind speeds between 113 and 157. At this point, the tornados are becoming especially dangerous and will probably cause significant damage. On top of what an F1 tornado causes, this category of tornado may uproot larger trees and mobile homes can be completely torn apart, leaving nothing behind. The wind is also strong enough to knock over train cars and semi-trucks. Small items, such as branches and street signs, become projectiles and are extremely dangerous. Even fencing and other smaller material turn into dangerous debris.

F3

An F3 tornado category will see wind speeds between 158 and 206 miles per hour. At these kinds of wind speeds, entire forests are destroyed, with most trees pulled from the ground. Beyond just train cars, entire trains can be flipped from the tracks, and well poured and secured walls and roofs may be blown from homes. If you are outdoors during any tornado level it’s important to get indoors, but it is especially important with an F3 category tornado. 

F4

Second, only to the most powerful tornado category of all the groups, the F4 is powerful and devastating. It comes with wind speeds between 207 and 260 miles per hour. Entire houses may be totally raised. Vehicles may also become projectiles and tossed through the air. These are vehicles of several thousand pounds tossed around without any problem at all.

F5

This is the strongest size and category of tornado. It is basically a super tornado and often is only formed in certain areas of the world due to the necessary weather patterns needed for it to develop. With these kinds of tornados, the wind speed will increase to between 261 and 318 miles per hour. The damage caused is beyond that of what an F4 is capable of doing. Full houses are not only destroyed, but they are ripped up from the foundation and often sent spinning through the air (similar to the Wizard of Oz). Even steel-reinforced structures are susceptible to damage.

It is important for you to take all tornado watch and warnings seriously. No matter the size of the storm, you are in danger if you are outside or not in a safe location. Even if the tornado is a watch, there likely is a major storm going on that, in and of itself, is capable of damage. So, whenever there is foul weather, it is important for you to keep the radio or television turned on and stay informed as to what is going on and what you and your family need to be doing.

What Is a Tornado Watch?

When understanding what a tornado warning vs watch is, a tornado warning always means the tornado has been identified. It has been seen, or detected and confirmed, so there is without a question of doubt a tornado in the area. A tornado watch, on the other hand, means there are atmospheric conditions favorable to the formation of a tornado. This means that while no tornados have been identified and there may not even be the formation of funnel clouds yet, all the weather in the area suggests the possibility, and even the likelihood, of a tornado formation.

When looking at a tornado warning vs watch, the tornado watch is an early warning. It is telling you that there is the chance of a tornado and that you should move to safety as quickly as possible. By the time a tornado forms, you will not have the kind of time you need to move to safety, especially if a tornado has been spotted in the area. Tornados can switch direction without notice, so even if a tornado has moved past a neighborhood, it can swing back. In short, tornados are unpredictable.

One of the best ways to always stay prepared is by having a tornado kit ready as well as knowing what your tornado plan is. Be sure to review your tornado plan with everyone in your family so that everyone is on the same page. 

Tornado Warning vs Watch: What You Need to Know

When it comes to a tornado warning vs watch, it is important to take action right away no matter what is going on. A tornado watch means you should be on the lookout for a tornado, as there is not yet one in the area, but there is a good chance of one forming. Due to this, you need to move to a safe location and wait out the storm.

A watch needs to be taken seriously. There are some who see it as a watch and do not take the necessary precautions right away. This has the potential of putting them in harm’s way. Tornados often form with very little warning. Some funnel clouds develop slowly as it makes its way down to the ground. Other funnel clouds are formed right away, which means a tornado watch can move to a tornado warning in a matter of moments. If the tornado forms in the immediate area, you’ll see the tornado before the warning is issued. Because the tornado can develop almost instantly, by the time the warning is issued, it might be too late.

It is important to have some sort of device on hand that allows you to check the weather reports while you are in your shelter. In the event of a tornado, if power and electrical lines are above ground, there is a strong chance you will lose electricity. Due to this, you need a device that is able to still receive wireless transmissions. Even your cell phone may not work correctly if you are either underground or if a nearby cell tower has been damaged. It is a good idea to have a battery-operated radio in your home, along with flashlights, so if power is lost, you can stay up to date on what’s going on.

There are locations where tornados are more likely to develop than others. Wherever you live, you do need to have the necessary safety precautions in place, so you are as prepared as possible.

Conclusion

In terms of the amount of damage and destruction based on the strength of a storm, nothing else on the planet is able to compare with what a tornado is able to do. That is why it is so important for you to be mindful of what is going on, and what the weather is like in your area. You will probably receive a tornado watch notification before anything else. When you receive this, you need to take the precautions right away. This will give you enough time to do what you need to do, gather the necessary supplies, and make your way into your shelter. Storms capable of forming a tornado do not last long, so you will not be in your shelter for long, but for the betterment of your family, it is necessary to move quickly.

14 Deadliest Natural Disasters of All Time

What are the deadliest natural disasters of all time by death toll? Which type of deadliest natural disasters has the greatest death count? More importantly, what are some ways the population was affected by those disasters? Were there things that people did to worsen or better the effects of mother nature angrily smashing her surroundings?

The 14 Deadliest Natural Disasters of All Time (by Death Toll)

plant growing through crack on the ground

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  • 2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake/Tsunami
  • 1920 Haiyuan Earthquake
  • 1976 Tangshan Earthquake
  • 526 Antioch Earthquake
  • 1839 India Cyclone
  • 1881 Haiphong Typhoon
  • 1970 Bhola Cyclone
  • 1556 Shaanxi Earthquake
  • 1887 Yellow River Flood
  • 1931 Central China Floods
  • 1331-1820 – Black Death Pandemic
  • 1958-61 Great Chinese Famine
  • Last 150 Years- Measles Pandemic
  • 1900 to eradication in 1980 – Small Pox Pandemic

#14—2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake/Tsunami

indian ocean earthquake 2004

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Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

Southern and Southeast Asia were beaten by a massively destructive tsunami in 2004. An undersea earthquake measured at magnitude 9.1 is the underlying cause of the tsunami. The Indonesian island Sumatra’s coast is the closest to where the earthquake originated. Striking at 7:59 AM on the morning of December 26, it took seven hours for the rippling waves to cease. Incredibly immense waves reported to be 30 feet high or more crashed upon the shorelines. Coastal areas located as far away as East Africa felt the devastating effect of this deadliest of natural disasters.

Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Maldives, and Thailand received shattering amounts of destruction. Officials for Indonesia estimate that 200,000 people alone died in Sumatra’s Aceh province. Tens of thousands more were reported missing, and a very large number of them originate from the Indian territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Maldives had hundreds of casualties coupled with some economic damages and thousands of tourists reported dead or missing. Lack of food, clean water, and the difficulty of sending aid extended the list of casualties greatly in remote locations. Fishing grounds, farmlands, resorts, and villages were overloaded with dead bodies, debris, and salt water.

Death Toll

227,998

#13—1920 Haiyuan Earthquake

Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

China’s remote province of Gansu in 1920 had a rural district called Haiyuan on its eastern side. On the evening of December 16, an earthquake’s epicenter would form under its outskirts. Northwest China’s predominant form of home construction at this time was cave dwellings dug out of loess—sediment of fine yellow soil. This form of building was also incredibly susceptible to collapse under seismic activity. Over 675 major loess landslides were the results of a terrible 7.8 magnitude earthquake. Most of the destruction’s death toll would be in rural areas where building collapses happened on a massive scale. Estimated damages for property losses are $20 million US dollars of 1920 value in Gansu. Exposure, starvation, and bandits also contribute to the final tally of lives. It is impossible to distinguish between lives lost in the initial quake and the pursuing months of chaos.

Death Toll

234,117

#12—1976 Tangshan Earthquake

1976 tangshan earthquake

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Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

In 1976 on July 28 a Chinese coal-mining focused city located east of Beijing would be the epicenter of the Great Tangshan Earthquake. Most of the deaths associated with this tremor are related to building collapse. Unreinforced masonry homes were the predominant dwelling in this area. Property damage from the quake extended the 68 miles between Tangshan and Beijing. At 3:42 AM a magnitude 7.5 disaster struck near Tangshan and would be felt close to 700 miles away in all directions. It would also introduce a previously unknown major fault now called the Tangshan Fault. Later on the same day, a massive 7.1 magnitude aftershock would cause additional chaos. Over 700,000 additional people would be injured on top of the final death toll. Estimated 85 percent of all unreinforced structures were destroyed in Tangshan alone. The extreme estimates would list death toll for this deadliest natural disaster at over 655,000.

Death Toll

242,000

#11—526 Antioch Earthquake

Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

The Syria region and Antioch were part of the Byzantine Empire in 526 AD. During late May at midmorning, a massive earthquake would create one of the deadliest natural disasters. Quickly following the quake, a massive fire would also destroy what remained. These areas are historically earthquake hot due to the surrounding continental plates and resulting fault lines. 18 months of aftershocks followed the estimated 7.0 magnitude tremor. In historical reports, the only reported houses to remain standing after the initial quake were located closest to mountains. However, most of the damage accounted for is predominantly the fire caused by the earthquake. For example, the Great Church built by Constantine would survive the damage caused by the quake only to be destroyed days later. Seven days after the quake the fire would claim much.

Death Toll

250,000

#10—1839 India Cyclone

1839 india cyclone

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Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

Today Coringa is a small India village near the Godavari River. Prior to 1839, it had grown into a bustling port city. Even in 1789 a loss of 20,000 people due to cyclone did not halt its growth. However, in 1839 storm surge waves would reach an intimidating estimate of 40 foot in height. Over 20,000 vessels would be lost to the destructive winds and water. This destruction is why Coringa is just a tiny village today. This storm would become the third largest loss of life from any tropical cyclone worldwide, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters. Henry Piddington of the British East India Company actually coined the term cyclone after witnessing the swirling circles in 1789 and 1839.

Death Toll

300,000

#9—1881 Haiphong Typhoon

1881 haiphong typhoon

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Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

Gulf of Tonkin is where the typhoon smashed in 1881. Tidal waves flooded the city of Haiphong in northeastern Vietnam. Located on a branch of the Red River delta, Haiphong is roughly 10 miles from the Gulf of Tonkin. Connected to the seas by an access channel developed by the French in 1874 gave Haiphong regional economic importance. During the floods caused by the typhoon, the access channel intensified the extensive floodwater destruction. The total death toll from this deadliest natural disasters actually ties with the India Cyclone. Many of the deaths resulting from this are unknown, as the number of deaths from disease and starvation isn’t accounted for.

Death Toll

300,000

#8—1970 Bhola Cyclone

1970 bhola cyclone

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Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

East Pakistan and India’s West Bengal are the locations for the next of the deadliest natural disasters. Remaining the deadliest tropical cyclone ever recorded, it struck on November 12, 1970. Most of the deaths are tied to the low-lying islands of the Ganges Delta. It was the sixth cyclonic storm to populate the North Indian Ocean during the cyclone season. Forming initially on November 8, it traveled from the Bay of Bengal and grew to 115 mph before making landfall. The storm surge wiped out many villages and devastated many offshore islands. In Upazila, Tazumuddin, over 45% of the total population (167,000) perished. Once over land the storm would begin to weaken rapidly. While being the deadliest tropical cyclone recorded, it is not the strongest.

Death Toll

500,000

#7—1556 Shaanxi Earthquake

Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

1556 is the year for the deadliest earthquake in history, one of the deadliest natural disasters. It formed in the late evening, with aftershocks continuing through the following day. The epicenter of the quake is believed to be the Wei River Valley of the Shaanxi Province. In the near city of Huaxian, every single building and home collapsed as a result of this deadliest natural disaster. More than half of the city residents in Huaxian were killed. In some places, over 60-foot deep crevices opened. Serious damage was found up to 300 miles away in all directions. Landslides were another massively contributing factor to the total death toll from this quake. Counting casualties is imprecise in large-scale disasters, and even more so prior 20th century. This disaster is also estimated to measure approximately an 8.0 magnitude.

Death Toll

830,000

#6—1887 Yellow River Flood

Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

China is historically flood-prone. In the last 2000 years, the Yangtze River alone has flooded over 1000 times. Hwang Ho, or Yellow River, is responsible for the most catastrophic of China’s floods though. Over 3000 miles long, it begins well above sea level in the province of Qinghai and winds its way down to the Yellow Sea. Westerners dub it “China’s Sorrow” due to the amounts of people killed. Centuries of farmers living near the Yellow River had built dikes on it to contain rising waters caused by silt accumulation on the riverbed. On September 28, 1887, massive flooding overcame the dikes after massive amounts of rainfall across multiple days. The first of the dikes to give way were believed to be in Huayankou. An estimated 50,000 square miles were affected by the flooding. Over 2 million were left homeless in the aftermath. Lack of basic necessities claimed countless lives along with the flood itself.

Death Toll

900,000

#5—1931 Central China Floods

Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

China’s spring of 1931 held the roots of an unfolding deadliest natural disasters. The winter of 1930-1931 was particularly harsh and left large amounts of snow and ice across the rivers. This frozen reservoir of unanticipated water unfolded into a terribly tragic scene. Years upon years of expanding growth and dike creation across its river networks would cause massive flooding. An area the size of England plus half of Scotland would be affected by the flooding. 52 million people were affected by the flooding of Yangzi, Huai, Yellow River, and Grand Canal. The majority of the damage and chaos were concentrated on the eight central provinces of China. Over 150,000 people drowned in the very first flood phase alone. The initial hazard of inundation was followed by an extreme subsistence crisis as all the summer harvest was destroyed. All the stored grain sources were also destroyed as it continued to lay waste to the provinces.

Death Toll

2,000,000

#4—1331-1820 – Black Death Pandemic

Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

In the medieval ages, the Black Death was one of the most widespread worst natural disasters of all time. Death literally traveled from the distant reaches of Asia to the other edge of Europe. Recurrences of this plague would surface many times over. Along all the trade routes, fleas carried this hidden killer to the far corners of the world. Cities were most greatly affected by this terrible occurrence. Monastic communities had the highest incidence of victims during these times. It struck regardless of rank or power. Aragon’s Queen, Castile’s King, English Princesses, and archbishops were all being struck down. The papal court at Avignon was reduced fully by 25 percent, while entire families and communities were exterminated. The severe reduction in overall population resulted in all manner of problems. Anti-Semitism resulting in being burned at the stake, the severe economic decline of nations, and an incredible lack of raw labor. French Chronicler Jean Froissart estimates that around one-third of the European population was decimated.

Death Toll

25 million

#3—1958-61 Great Chinese Famine

Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

Between 1958 and 1961, China would be hit by repeated disaster after disaster. These events stacking on each other compounded into one of the deadliest natural disasters. The Chinese government refers to this period as “Three Years of Natural Disasters.” It would leave more than 100 million acres of agricultural land useless and millions of people affected. The great sorrow began with intense flooding in mid-1959 of the Yellow River. Following up the aftermath of that initial flooding were diseases and insect infestations across the affected zones. Later, severe and significant drought hit many of the food crop producing areas. 25 to 50 percent of crop production fell that year. 11 major typhoons hit the southern provinces in 1960. Finally, in 1961 the northern provinces endured months of intense drought while the southern flooded finished off this deadliest natural disasters.

Death Toll

30,000,000

#2—Last 150 Years- Measles Pandemic

measles

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Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

Measles is caused by a virus passed through direct contact or through the air. It infests the respiratory tract before spreading throughout the body. Only humans are affected by measles. Roughly 10 to 12 days after exposure to the virus, a high fever will be noticed. Runny nose, cough, watery eyes, and small white spots on the inside of the cheeks develop in the initial stage. After several days, a rash spreads across everything until it reaches the hands and feet.

Measles-related deaths are usually through complications from the disease. Children under 5 and adults over 30 are usually where most serious complications occur. It is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. Before 1963, when the vaccine was introduced, every two to three years a measles outbreak would pop. An estimated 2.6 million people would die each year in these outbreaks. Before vaccination, the death rate for this deadliest natural disasters was roughly 30 percent of all cases.

Death Toll

200,000,000

#1—1900 to Eradication in 1980 – Small Pox  Pandemic

Summary of Historical Natural Disaster

Historically, smallpox is a pandemic which decimated people throughout civilizations timeline. Ancient Egypt, China, India, and Rome all have recorded outbreaks of this disease. Over one-third of the Central and South America population was devastated by the epidemic. It is also one of the success stories in the vaccination world. October 1977 is the last year that a naturally occurring case was diagnosed.

As recently as 1967, over 15 million cases were occurring yearly. It was caused by infection by variola virus and spread through direct contact or airborne inhalation of fluids from an infected person. Initial symptoms are fever and vomiting, followed by the formation of sores in the mouth and skin. Fluid-filled bumps with a center dent would spread across the infected person’s entire body. The bumps would scab over and fall off, leaving scars as a reminder for all who survived this deadliest natural disaster. Vaccination is the only reason for the final all-clear on smallpox. It was actually discovered by Edward Jenner in 1798 but took almost 200 years before the final eradication of the disease.

Death Toll

300,000,000

The Verdict

Humanity had an influence on these deadliest natural disasters as well as being influenced by them. Sometimes, the effect humanity has on their environment is the effect of their presence. Sometimes, the devastating death tolls were because of a lack of understanding on peoples part. In other cases, the devastating death tolls only motivated people to ceaselessly work towards a scientific response.

Types Of Tornadoes: 10 Things You Need To Know

Tornado

In any given area of the world, there are certain natural disasters to be wary of depending on the climate, time of year, and weather tendencies. In places near the ocean, hurricanes are a very real and threatening possibility that drive hundreds of people to evacuate their homes every year. However, in many flat states across America, tornados are the largest weather-related threat. There are many types of tornadoes, with varying shapes, sizes, and ability to damage homes.

Many people have seen the Wizard of Oz and heard of tornado alley, but few people truly understand the reality of a tornado. There is much more to a tornado than simply a large funnel of wind that destroys homes; they can form in many different conditions and have a wide range of potential for destruction. Tornadoes can cause extreme damage to homes, farms, and lives if those living in at-risk areas remain unaware and unprepared. Because of this very real threat, it is advisable to learn about the many types of tornadoes and how to proceed if one touches down in your area.

What Is a Tornado? 

A tornado is a vertical funnel of air that is spinning in circles extremely quickly. Tornadoes grow out of thunderstorms, and they often occur alongside hail. The winds in a tornado can be as rapid at 250 miles an hour, and it can create a clearing up to a mile wide and 50 miles long. There are many types of tornadoes, but the most damaging and threatening develop from extremely large, destructive thunderstorms called supercells.

Types of Tornados: 10 Things to Know

Firenadoes

When evaluating what type of tornado you’re dealing with, there are many factors to take into account. Each individual tornado can be any variety of shape, size, color, and consistency. Tornadoes vary greatly depending on how they have formed and which elements they are surrounded by. Here are some of the many types of tornadoes that can develop.

1. Supercell Tornadoes

The type of tornado that most of us think of when picturing a tornado is a supercell tornado, which is borne from a large, destructive thunderstorm. This variation often stays on the ground for a very long time period, often over an hour. Supercell tornadoes are typically more violent and longer-lasting than other tornadoes, and their winds can be faster than 200 mph.

2. Landspout Tornadoes

The physical formation of landspout tornadoes is all in the name- they are essentially waterspouts that have formed on the land. These are typically less powerful than supercell tornadoes, and they do not form wall clouds like some other tornado types do. Landspout tornadoes frequently develop along the edge of thunderstorms, forming from the air that has been cooled by the rain. This form of tornado is often seen beneath large cumulus clouds or cumulonimbus clouds.

3. Gustnados

Gustnadoes are one of the weaker types of tornadoes, as they typically last a very short period of time and have slower winds than other forms. They are basically clouds of debris or spirals of dust that form from the gusting winds of thunderstorms. They can also be described as faster, larger dust devils. Gustnadoes form in very dusty areas and they usually cause less damage than supercell tornadoes or other larger variations.

4. Waterspouts

A waterspout tornado is a tornado that forms above water, and it almost always disappears when it crosses onto the land. Most develop from cumulus clouds that have expanded rapidly or from small thunderstorms. Their funnels consist of condensed freshwater droplets, but they form over warm tropical oceanic waters. Waterspouts can be frightening for those who live near the sea, but they are not known for causing huge amounts of damage due to their dissipation upon reaching land.

5. Dust Devils

Dust devils are a form of tornadoes that result from very dry, hot, clear weather conditions on dry land or desert. They often develop in the late morning or early afternoon, when the sun is highest in the sky and hottest on the ground. Dust devils are relatively harmless, as they last for a few minutes or less and have wind speeds that are usually less than 70 mph. Dust devils form when slow desert breezes result in a swirling tunnel of dust, and they are less powerful than the weakest tornado.

6. Firenadoes

Firenadoes, also known as fire tornadoes or fire devils, are created from the strong heat resulting from volcanic eruptions or large forest fires. They form when the wind of the fire concentrates on an initially small eddy and then becomes a tornado-like column of fire and smoke. Firenadoes can have winds of over 100 mph, which can have devastating effects on land and property.

7. Shrouded Tornadoes

Although most people picture tornadoes as a long tunnel of wind that comes from a wall cloud, some tornadoes are hidden by the storm that creates them. These are called shrouded tornadoes, and they are basically impossible to see because of their hidden formation. This results in a very dangerous situation, as onlookers will simply believe that they have come in contact with a large storm, while in reality there is a tornado lying in wait.

8. Wedge Tornadoes

Most types of tornadoes form the shape of a wedge, which can become so wide that it seems to simply be a large block of somber clouds. The wedge is usually larger in width than the distance from the cloud to the ground. This can be confusing because onlookers often can’t discern a wedge tornado from a low-hanging cloud. Many major tornadoes take the form of a wedge.

9. Dissipating Tornadoes

Dissipating tornadoes take on fascinating forms as they disappear. They are also called “rope tornadoes,” as they take the form of a very long funnel that resembles a rope or tube. These tornadoes curl and twist into elaborate, complex shapes that are as compelling as they are dangerous. When the length of the funnel increases, the winds creating it weaken and the tornado eventually dissipates completely.

10. Colorful Tornadoes

Tornadoes can take on different shades and colors depending on the physical environment they develop in. Tornadoes that form over water are blue or bright white, while mountainous tornadoes are white due to the snow. Funnels that twist slowly suck up a large amount of dirt and debris, which results in a very dark shade of brown, while tornadoes in the Great Plains can be red due to the reddish soil they ingest. Types of tornadoes that are created in dry areas with a lack of loose soil to suck up can be almost invisible, only identifiable by the swirls of dirt at their base.

How to Stay Safe in a Tornado

disaster

There are many guidelines for how to remain safe and secure during a tornado, but one of the most important strategies is to have a designated place to go should a tornado hit. This place should be storm shelter at best, but other suitable options are a central room in the basement such as a bathroom or closet. You should be in the lowest level of the house possible, with as many walls between you and the tornado as you can. You should also place yourself away from windows, as there is a chance of glass breaking and wind coming through them.

It is also a good idea to have an emergency supply kit in your designated safe area, complete with bottled water, first aid items, a flashlight, and a weather radio. Putting cushions on top of yourself once you are in the shelter is also an added protection from debris that may fall. If you find yourself in a car when a tornado hits, immediately pull over and find shelter. It is best if you can find a building with a shelter, but if this is unavailable, a ditch is a much safer choice than a car.

Along with following safety precautions once you are in the dangerous situation of a tornado, using preventative measures is another way to reduce the potential danger. If there are storm warnings in your area, avoid roads and shopping until the danger passes. Ensure that your designated storm shelter area is available and stocked with necessary supplies. Also, make a plan with family members and have frequent storm drills during tornado season to be fully prepared for all types of tornadoes that may come your way.  

Conclusion

Tornado

Most people have one picture in their mind when they imagine a tornado, but the reality is that tornadoes come in many forms, with varying consequences for those they strike. Learning about the many types of tornadoes that exist is not only fascinating, but it is also the perfect way to be as prepared as possible should you find yourself at the mercy of such a storm. If you are well-informed and fully prepared for a tornado, it will do significantly less damage to you and your loved ones. The next time storm season rolls around, remember these facts to stay informed and out of harm’s way.

10 Ways To Minimize Earthquake Damage To Your Home

There is an old saying that goes, “When the earth mightily shakes, only then does humanity decide to awake”. This may sound ironic, but it, unfortunately, seems to be true. For instance, did you know the National Earthquake Information Center (NEIC) at Illinois (USA), records a global average of 20,000 earthquakes every year? Of these, only a hundred of them receive any nation-wide attention, and again, only because of the widespread damage they cause. Yet, unlike a hurricane or a tornado that come with a prior warning (at least ten minutes), an earthquake can occur in mere seconds and shake up the very foundation of your house. In fact, a significant number of earthquakes shatter the framework of many a house because the building infrastructure is not designed to withstand even minor tremors. Through this blog, we help you avoid such needless devastation by sharing ten resourceful ways to minimize earthquake damage to your home.

What Is the Best Way to Prepare for an Earthquake?

If a high-intensity earthquake rips through your town or city, there is little you can do beforehand to protect your belongings. In fact, this is the time to drop everything and rush towards personal safety, while also keeping an eye on the larger community. However, you will be surprised to know that the majority of yearly earthquake damage is not caused by these high-intense quakes, but by mere tremors. When the earth shakes, everything can turn upside down, literally! Fortunately, forewarned is indeed forearmed. If you live in an area that has recorded any seismic activity over the past decade, your house may be subject to some amount of risk. Here are four elementary tips to help you stay prepared at all times and thus minimize earthquake damage.

Tip 1: Anchor All Precious Belongings

The expensive large-screen television set that has seen cherished family memories, the safe that contains your jewelry and standby money, the large 2-door stainless steel refrigerator that has housed many a family meal, the valuable décor pieces spread around your home, the prized china in your kitchen cabinet that has been unfailingly passed down several generations are all precious belongings that cannot be replaced easily or at all. However, they most certainly can be protected. For this, we suggest that you secure them firmly at all times. You can do this by bolting them to heavy furniture, fastening them with durable straps, or even anchoring them to a sturdy wall, so they are less likely to be disturbed during a minor quake.

Tip 2: Close Those Doors

In the stress and hurry of our daily lives, how often do we nonchalantly leave our file cabinets or kitchen drawers or windows open? Unfortunately, this carelessness can be thoroughly punished during a quake. Protect your house and your everyday belongings from earthquake damage by making use of those bolts, doors, and latches. Yes, it is time to close them securely every single time.

Tip 3: Safeguard Your House from Hazardous Substances

As a regular family, you are bound to have several potentially hazardous chemicals and materials sprinkled all around your house. (This includes all flammable liquids, detergents, wooden pieces collected around your fireplace, etc.) If you live in an earthquake susceptible area, definitely find storage solutions that do not inadvertently add to earthquake damage.

Otherwise, imagine if the structure of your house has remained solid even after the earthquake, only to be burnt down due to a fire caused by an open oilcan. Now, that would be devastating for sure. It is therefore important to find a way beforehand to safeguard your home from this unfortunate situation. (This is also the reason you should consider anchoring all high-risk appliances like your water heater, fireplace, etc.–firmly to the wall.)

Tip 4: Fortify Your House with a Well-Stocked Earthquake Kit

This can include a safety kit (or two), a fire extinguisher, a pack of portable batteries, a camp-stove (or two), torches, and perhaps even an emergency radio. With this, you are not only training yourself to be a resourceful boy scout but also protecting your beloved home for potential earthquake damage.

Is There a Need for Your Home to Be Designed a Specific Way to Withstand an Earthquake?

An earthquake–no matter how minor – is bound to test the stability and strength of your home’s structure. Here, common construction guidelines show you need a cohesive, leak-proof roof, which is tightly attached to the building. You also need to be surrounded by securely fastened walls and supported by a strong foundation to protect your home. Here are some additional tips to protect your house from earthquake damage. (Note: These require the services of a professional contractor, and you may need additional permits before construction.)

Tip 5: Boost the Strength of Your Home’s Foundation by Bracing All ‘Cripple’ Walls

A cripple wall is different from other walls as it supports your house’s foundation. It also supports the sub-floor and rests on top of the foundation. This is the first wall to shake during a quake. Fortify your cripple walls with additional braces–like a 4-inch board all around–so it stays strong and sturdy during and after the earthquake. In addition, this bracing can also be provided to chimneys and the external walls so your house stands on a foundation that is truly designed to stand firm during a quake.

Tip 6: Reinforce Your House’s Foundation with Steel

This tip has both literal and metaphoric implications! If you want your house’s foundation to have a backbone of steel, you literally need to insert steel into it. This is where sill plates come in handy as they are inserted between your house’s foundation and the first level of flooring to add strength and support to your home. However, they are generally made of concrete or lumber.

To protect your house from earthquake damage, check with your contractor on using sill plates made of steel. They will also need to be bolted/screwed several inches into the foundation so they do not shift during a quake. Another hint is to use steel within your walls. The typical (concrete/brick) masonry used is susceptible even to minor shakes. Reinforcing them with steel will make them more capable of withstanding earthquakes.

Tip 7: Round Your Window Edges

A square or rectangle shaped window reeks of a sleek design. However, an earthquake can cause the entire house to shift a few inches. This can cause the windows to chip and crack. Rounded window edges avoid this by providing more leeway. Again, check with your contractor so this fits into both the aesthetics and functionality of your home.

Ways to Minimize Earthquake Damage to Your Home

Tip 8: Strap Beds and Heavy Furniture to the Wall

With the tips listed in the above section, your house’s foundation will stay strong and secure. Now, imagine that you come back to a home, still standing after a recorded seismic activity, only to find it completely trashed within. This can happen when the heavy furniture pieces within your house shift randomly during a quake. To avoid this, ensure that you strap them securely to the wall. The same applies to all vehicles and equipment in the garage and anything that “hangs” from the ceilings or the walls. (It is best to avoid any hanging arrangement in quake-prone areas. You might compromise on aesthetics or design, but it is well worth the safety of your house.)

Tip 9: Treat Tubes and Wires with Extra Care

Check with your construction contractor on flexible materials that can be used for your gas tubes and electric wires so they stay safe during quakes. In the event of an earthquake, it is also important to close all gas pipes and have the house thoroughly inspected by a professional so you are sure there is no leakage. Finally, make sure you do not inadvertently touch a hanging/ broken wire, as it may be live and, hence, dangerous.

Tip 10: Prepare a Safe-Box

A safe-box is essentially a place to keep your most precious belongings. While the tips listed above protect you from earthquake damage, no list will be complete without preparing you for an eventuality. This safe box is your sanctuary in the case of that eventuality.

Conclusion

You will be surprised that many people can seamlessly minimize earthquake damage to their house and community by developing a ‘seismic conscience’ or ‘seismic intuition’. Earthquakes are mostly sudden and unexpected. They also transpire in mere seconds with no warning. However, you can still tune into the community and area around you so you sense when your house is vulnerable to earthquakes. This knowledge can help you take the required steps to secure your house against future damage. Finally, do you know you can purchase extra-strong harnesses, wall straps, equipment straps, safety straps, buckles, and (furniture/ equipment) fasteners, locks, wall-brackets, floor brackets, furniture cables, and adhesive plates, which are exclusively designed to hold your things together during natural calamities? There is a whole, forceful world out there which can safeguard your house and its belongings from earthquake damage. It is time to wear your seismic conscience and get curious.

How To Stay Safe During An Excessive Heat Warning

The weather outside can have a direct impact on us: not just on our moods but also on our health and wellbeing. It is no coincidence that spring often sees us in the best of health, active and happy. Conversely, bad weather can see us quickly deteriorate, both physically and mentally. As the globe gets warmer every year, excessive heat warnings are becoming an unfortunate reality that many of us are forced to endure.

In fact, in the United States an increasing number of deaths are being reported every summer, caused primarily due to the excessive heat. In this article, we explore this yearly phenomenon and the pre-emptive measures we can take to safeguard our health, our pets, and the surrounding community.

What Is an Excessive Heat Warning?

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Americans expect their summers to be hot. However, an excessive heat warning is reported by the national weather service (NSW), in collaboration with the government, when the temperature goes dangerously above 100 degrees. This heat can be extreme enough to cause death.

You may wonder what makes this heat so extreme. Summers can be even hotter in tropical places like Africa or the Middle East. The difference lies in the sheer pace at which the temperature increases, and hence our unpreparedness to endure it without discomfort (hence the nation-wide warning). In fact, this unpleasant phenomenon can descend on us suddenly and quickly (in less than 12 hours), last for 1-3 days, and leave just as quickly. This gives our bodies very little time to adapt to the sudden changes in temperature.

Heat-Related Illnesses

Yes, we are hot-blooded beings. However, the body still requires a reasonable amount of time to respond appropriately to sudden changes in weather. During an excessive heat warning, the external humidity also increases along with the temperature, significantly slowing down evaporation. Due to this, our body temperature rises dramatically even as our metabolism slows down. The body thus becomes less efficient in maintaining the balance with the room temperature. This can lead to heat-related illnesses like:

  • Heat cramps
  • Heat exhaustion
  • Heat stroke

Heat cramps occur when our muscles spasm due to the excess heat outside. In less critical cases, this can be treated by hydrating the person with cooling fluids and non-caffeinated energy/sports drinks (as they are rich in hydrating electrolytes). In addition, the person will need to rest until the muscle cramps ease.

However, if this condition is left to fester over an hour (which can inadvertently happen in the case of athletes, construction workers or fire fighters), it can quickly lead to heat exhaustion, where the person additionally feels nauseous and weak. Sometimes, they may even faint. This condition needs to be quickly dealt with by moving the person into a room with cooler temperature.

Again, hydrating the person with cooling liquids every 20-30 minutes can help from escalating this into a heat stroke. A heat stroke can be fatal and therefore requires immediate medical attention. This is where the body’s pulse/ breathing alters to dangerous levels and can even lead to (fatal) seizures.

When Are Excessive Heat Warnings Issued?

fire heat

Americans will be pleased to know the national weather service (NSW) makes every effort to warn people in advance, well before the final excessive heat warning. For instance, the first warning of a potentially dangerous heat wave can be issued almost a week before the actual event. However, not all heat waves give us the luxury of multiple warnings. As we now understand the dangers that extreme heat can have on the body, it is equally important to recognize the different warnings issued by the weatherman, their criticality, and our subsequent call to action.

Types of Excessive Heat Warnings

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There are four types of heat warnings issued by the NSW (listed in order of criticality)

  • Excessive heat outlooks
  • Excessive heat watches
  • Heat advisory
  • Excessive heat warning

The first warning comes as an excessive heat outlook, issued at least 3-7 days in advance. This is a more potential warning than an actual threat. However, this is important for colder places (like Alaska) that are unprepared for a sudden rise in temperature and hence need more time to respond to the warning.When the weather persists, excessive heat watches are issued by NSW. Here, while the probability of the heat wave is high enough to be confirmed, the timing of its occurrence is still uncertain (within 1-3 days from warning). This still gives cooler areas some time to quickly prepare themselves for higher temperatures.

A heat advisory is an immediate call to action as it is a confirmation of a dangerous rise in temperature. This also means that the NSW predicts hot weather (typically above 100O F) within twelve hours of issuing the warning. This shows that the excessively hot conditions are likely to persist for at least a couple of days from the first occurrence. For Americans, it is imperative to move to cooler conditions when this warning is issued (especially if you are outdoors).

An excessive heat warning is the final straw, which if unattended can become lethal for your body. When the NSW issues this type of warning (generally given 12 hours in advance), you can expect high temperatures (105 degrees F and above), with the temperature consistently remaining above 75 degrees F even at night. This is the final call to protecting your family and community from any fatality that can occur due to extreme heat conditions.

How to Stay Safe during an Excessive Heat Warning

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You should know pets (especially small-sized dogs and puppies), children, and senior citizens are more susceptible to the extreme heat during an excessive heat warning. The rising temperature can also affect people who are obese and those struggling with low immunity or other health disorders. It is hence important to safeguard the entire community from these extreme conditions. Here are some straightforward tips to follow.

Regulate the Room Temperature

Here, the best solution would be to remain indoors within air-conditioned rooms. If this is not workable, you can even consider visiting public places that are air-conditioned (like libraries, community centers, shopping malls, etc.). As a final resort, you can cool your home by covering the windows with aluminium coverings (as they allow less heat to enter the home) or thick drapes. A good insulation system (including your doors and windows) can also help keep the excess heat from entering indoors. While ceiling fans are safe, table fans are more popular for quick cooling. However, it is important not to turn the fan directly on your face or too close to your body – especially when the room temperature is close to 100OF or above—as this can quickly dehydrate the body and cause heat-related illnesses.

Consciously Regulate Your Lifestyle

You might wonder what an excessive heat warning has to do with your everyday lifestyle. First, it requires you to remain mostly indoors. In addition, the body’s metabolism significantly slows down during this time. We suggest that you consume meals that are easy to digest like salads, soups, juices, semi-liquids, etc. It is also important to hydrate yourself frequently, but with non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated, non-chilled liquids as these can dehydrate you further. You can also bathe more frequently with cool or even cold water to keep the body cool.Finally, this is also a time to go easy on your fashion choices. Wear light footwear (not clunky boots), and clothing that is light both in texture and color. In addition, protect your body with a sunscreen with a high SPF factor, especially if you need to step outdoors for an emergency trip for the grocery.

Caring for the Community

Here, the best solution would be to remain indoors within air-conditioned rooms. If this is not workable, you can even consider visiting public places that are air-conditioned (like libraries, community centers, shopping malls, etc.). As a final resort, you can cool your home by covering the windows with aluminium coverings (as they allow less heat to enter the home) or thick drapes. A good insulation system (including your doors and windows) can also help keep the excess heat from entering indoors. While ceiling fans are safe, table fans are more popular for quick cooling. However, it is important not to turn the fan directly on your face or too close to your body – especially when the room temperature is close to 100OF or above—as this can quickly dehydrate the body and cause heat-related illnesses.

CONCLUSION

photography of a sun

When the NWS issues an excessive heat warning, remember it is essential to pay attention to it. As recent statistics prove, Americans have been more susceptible to these sudden rising temperatures than to any other adverse weather. With the tips provided in this article, we hope you can care for your family and your community. Like the old adage goes: health and safety first, always.