BLOGGING THE VIEW: What do you do when a tornado strikes?

Last Monday, KwaZulu-Natal was hit with yet another disaster, this time in the form of a tornado – an extremely rare (although not unheard of) weather phenomenon in South Africa.

The devastation to the Tongaat community in a matter of minutes was extreme, with lives lost and families left destitute.

While relief efforts are ongoing and South Africans are once again showing their true spirit, the reality is that this probably won’t be the last such weather event as the climate crisis escalates.

So, what are we supposed to do if a tornado strikes? The hope is that our weather predictive systems will become more attuned to such phenomena because when they strike, it happens very quickly – usually warning systems give only about 9 minutes lead time.

However, even in the event of a big storm with strong winds, there are steps you can take to protect yourselves and your family.

1. Find a safe room to bunker down

Many American states that are renowned for tornados have basements and storm shelters – we do not.

If a tornado warning is issued, or warnings of strong winds are issued, the safest place to be is in the innermost room or hallway of your house, away from any windows. Windows mean shattered glass which is a big worry.

If you have a bathroom indoors with no windows, or a storeroom, that’s ideal. Otherwise try to put as many walls between you and the outside world. Stay as low to the ground as possible.

2. Protection for head and feet

It may seem strange until it happens, but your best bet is to grab a pair of closed shoes and a helmet – a bicycle helmet will do – before you get into your safe spot.

A helmet will protect you from falling debris and you will need shoes when the tornado has passed, to walk on broken glass, nails or splintered wood.

3. Seek sturdy shelter

Try to get under something sturdy like a solid table to protect yourself. If there’s time, covering yourself with a blanket or mattress can offer extra protection. Remember to stay on the lowest floor but do not go under any floors that have heavy machinery or furniture above your head.

4. Safe spaces outside

If you’re at home, do not get in your car or try to drive away from the tornado as they can shift direction at any time – you’re safer indoors. If you’re outside when a tornado arrives, find a designated shelter such as a sturdy building or nearby home. If there is no safe building nearby, find a low, flat section on the ground or in a ditch.

Don’t hide under a bridge as you’re exposed to the winds and flying debris. If you’re in a car, get out and hide in a ditch far away from the vehicle so it doesn’t end up injuring you.

5. Keep your pets safe

Your pets need your help just as much as the rest of the family! If you have a crate, get them inside and keep them with you at all times. If you don’t have a crate, make sure they’re on a lead so they remain with you in a safe space rather than getting spooked and running away.

While tornados are not a regular occurrence here, we need to prepare for more extreme weather patterns going forward. The more you know, the better prepared you will be.

SOURCES:

https://weather.com/safety/tornado/news/tornado-safety-tips
https://www.savethechildren.org/us/what-we-do/disaster-relief-in-america/tornado-tips-for-parents
https://www.kin.com/blog/tornado-safety-tips/
https://www.wfmz.com/weather/if-a-tornado-is-headed-towards-you-what-should-you-do-to-stay-safe/article_fdcebdac-d53a-5791-8729-202161a237b5.html

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