A myth often circulated to us is that tornadoes do not hit the same place twice. Is it true? No. If you are in an area where a tornado has hit, you must take all safety precautions and heed every warning to save yourself, as tornadoes can occur in the same place twice or more.
There is no definitive answer to the query of how often tornadoes hit the same place, but there is evidence of a tornado hitting the same place twice over ten months in Harvest, Alabama.
Please continue reading to find out how to deal with a situation and get answers to more queries.
Why Do Tornadoes Occur?
A combination of factors causes tornadoes. The primary factor is a change in wind direction and speed with height, known as wind shear. This creates an invisible, horizontal spinning effect in the lower atmosphere.
When a change in air pressure or temperature occurs, the air rises and creates an area of low pressure at the surface; this causes the air to rush in to fill the void, forming strong winds. A tornado is created if strong winds and enough spin accompany the rising air.
How Often Do Tornadoes Occur?
The frequency of tornadoes varies greatly from region to region. In the United States, approximately 1,000 tornadoes are reported each year. On average, approximately ten tornadoes occur each day in the United States.
However, some areas experience more tornadoes than others. The US states with the most tornadoes are Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, and Florida.
When Do Tornadoes Occur?
Tornadoes usually occur in the United States during the spring and summer months, from March to June. Some parts of the United States experience tornadoes from June to November as well. However, this is rare. They are most common in the late afternoon and early evening hours when the sun is still up, and thunderstorms are most likely to form.
Do Tornadoes Hit The Same Place Twice?
Yes, tornadoes do hit the same place twice! They can even hit a place multiple times. The duration between the first tornado and the second one is still being determined. The time can span from a few months to years, but an area that experienced a tornado may be prone to be hit again.
This is because the area provides the perfect environment for the formation of a tornado. If the circumstances were right once, they could be right again and again and again.
Location plays a huge role in this. Areas in the Tornado Alley are more prone to being hit by tornadoes more than once due to the environment, location, and frequency of tornadoes.
Why Do Tornadoes Hit The Same Place?
Tornadoes are often drawn to the same place because of the environment. For example, tornado alley in the United States is prone to tornadoes because of its flat topography and proximity to warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico.
Additionally, thunderstorms are often more frequent in certain areas, creating an environment where tornadoes are more likely to form.
How Much Damage Do Tornadoes Cause?
Tornadoes can cause a wide range of damage, from minor property damage to the destruction of buildings. The amount of damage caused by a tornado depends on the strength of the tornado, the size of the affected area, and the type of structures in the path of the tornado.
According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration statistics, tornadoes cause an average of 400 million dollars in damage each year in the United States alone. Moreover, tornadoes kill 70 people on average per annum and cause 1500 injuries.
What To Do When a Tornado Hits?
While we are talking about tornadoes, you need to know some tips on the best course of action when you are in the midst of a tornado.
- Seek shelter immediately.
- Go to the lowest level of your home or building and take shelter in an interior room, away from windows and exterior walls.
- If you are in a mobile home, evacuate immediately and go to a nearby sturdy building or storm shelter.
- If you are in a car, seek shelter in a sturdy building. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car.
- Once you are safe, cover your head and neck with your arms and a blanket, coat, or other cushioning material.
- Stay inside until the tornado has passed.
- After the storm has passed, be aware of downed power lines, trees, and other debris.
- Please stay away from the damaged areas until the authorities have declared them safe.
What To Do Before A Tornado?
Precaution is always necessary before a natural disaster, especially one that can be forecasted. A tornado warning is issued as soon as a tornado is spotted on the radar. The population is informed about it and asked to seek shelter.
For some helpful information, watch this video:
Get Weather Ready: During a Tornado.
Below are some precautionary measures you must take when a warning is issued:
- Stay informed by listening to local weather reports and be alert for tornado watches and warnings.
- Know your community’s warning systems and disaster plans.
- Locate a safe place in your home or workplace, such as an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows and doors.
- Have a kit prepared with essential items such as flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, non-perishable food, and water.
- Have an emergency plan in place for your family, and be sure to discuss it with all members.
- Know the best escape routes from your home or workplace.
- If you are driving, know where to take shelter if a tornado is spotted.
- Have a predetermined meeting place with your family in case you are separated.
Final Thoughts
Yes, a tornado can hit a place more than once. We urge you to stay safe and take all necessary precautionary measures. Moreover, it is of the utmost importance that you follow all instructions from the relevant authorities and cooperate as much as possible. Keep your loved ones close, and stay safe!