Tornado Preparedness
February 2, 2021
Tornado Preparedness
The City of Alamo Heights would like to remind its citizens about tornado safety and some important tips for success. Tornadoes can happen anytime and can bring an excess of 200 MPH winds, creating destruction in their wake. There are several ways to be notified of tornadic conditions in your area. Wireless emergency alerts are automatically generated to all compatible cell phones in the area that is threatened. If you receive AMBER alerts, you should receive the wireless emergency alerts, but please check to see if your device is compatible by referencing the following link:
You can also obtain emergency alert notifications from weather band radios. Follow the link below to review the “Best Rated” weather band radios:
You can also obtain emergency alert notifications from other devices that can alert you of tornadic conditions in your area. Tornado Alert is a scientific breakthrough based upon over 40 years of research. Unlike existing warning technologies, Tornado Alert constantly monitors the skies in real-time for electrical activity, the scientifically proven cause of tornado formation. Tornado Alert will tell you when a tornado, lightning or severe weather is detected within a 30 mile radius of your location, that’s up to 30 minutes warning with live proximity status, giving you with critical time to get to safety, day or night. For additional information on this product, refer to the link below:
If a tornado warning is issued for the area, the following recommendations can help you prepare for the event:
- Finding a safe room or sturdy building, basement, or storm cellar to go to
- If your home does not have a basement, a small interior room on the lowest level is recommended
- Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls
- Have a plan in place for where family members will meet during and after an event
- Make a list of what to take with you if you must leave your home after an event
- Be sure to include any medications
- Pay attention to weather reports and the signs of a tornado including high winds, funnel-shaped clouds, and excessive wind noise
- Prepare long-term supplies in your emergency kit such as water, cleaning supplies, non-perishable foods, and first-aid supplies
Do not try to outrun a tornado! Instead, by following the above points and resources below, plan ahead of time for success.
https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes
https://gov.texas.gov/organization/disabilities/emergency_management
https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/tornado.html
Click here for the Tornado Preparedness Informational Flyer.