Natural disasters: What to know, what to do Published May 29, 2008 By 375th Civil Engineer Squadron SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE,Ill. -- As the summer months approach, it is important for JTF Scott members to be cognizant of the hazards associated with the weather in the local area. Natural disasters are a threat to the installation, which members of the 375th Civil Engineer Squadron's Readiness and Emergency Management Flight prepare for everyday. As a resident or employee of Scott, each person should be familiar with the types of weather events in the area, be prepared for their occurrence and know what to do when a threatening scenario arises. The following information outlines the two major types of weather affecting our region, tornados and thunderstorms. Tornados: A tornado is defined as a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. In an average year, 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide, resulting in about 80 deaths and more than 1,500 injuries. Tornadoes can occur anywhere at any time of the year. In Midwestern states, peak tornado occurrence is April through June. However, tornadoes are also closely associated with hurricanes and often occur during the hurricane season, June 1 through Nov. 30. Know what to listen for... - A tornado watch is issued when tornadoes are possible in the area. Remain alert for approaching storms. - A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar, moving to a predetermined place of safety is advised. - Stay informed of weather conditions by tuning in to local radio and television stations or by listening to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest tornado watches and warnings. Remember, tornadoes occasionally develop in areas where severe thunderstorm watch or warnings are in effect, so listen for that information as well. Remain alert and use the following three steps: 1. Know what to look for... environmental clues - dark, often greenish sky - wall cloud - large hail - loud roar, similar to a freight train - some tornadoes appear as a visible funnel extending only partially to the ground - some tornadoes are clearly visible while others are obscured by rain or nearby low-hanging clouds 2. Know what you can do... tornado safety - Develop a plan for you and your family at home, work, school and when outdoors - Have frequent drills - Know the county in which you live and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins - Listen to radio and television for information - Create a disaster supply kit with enough supplies to meet your families needs for at least three days. Include items such as water, non-perishable food, clothing and blankets, a first aid kit, special items such as infant supplies, an emergency radio, flashlights and batteries - If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible - Know who is most at risk: people in automobiles; the elderly, very young and the physically or mentally impaired; people in manufactured or mobile homes, or people who may not understand the warning due to a language barrier 3. If a warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches... - In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement. - If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. - Stay away from windows. - Get out of automobiles. - Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately. - If caught outside or in a vehicle, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression. - Manufactured (mobile) homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned. Thunderstorms: Thunderstorms are the most common experience of severe weather here. The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and lasts an average of 30 minutes. Despite their small size, thunderstorms are dangerous. Every thunderstorm produces lightning which kills more people each year than tornadoes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can lead to flash flooding. Strong winds, hail and tornadoes are also dangers associated with some thunderstorms. Lightning occurs with all thunderstorms. It averages 93 deaths and 300 injuries each year. It also causes several hundred million dollars in damage to property and forests annually. Flash floods are the number one thunderstorm killer, with nearly 140 fatalities each year. Most flash flood deaths occur at night and when people become trapped in automobiles. Straight line winds are responsible for most thunderstorm wind damage. Winds can exceed 100 mph. One type of straight line wind that can cause extreme damage is a downburst, a small area of rapidly descending air beneath a thunderstorm. Downbursts can reach speeds equal to that of a strong tornado and can be extremely dangerous to aviation. Hail causes nearly $1 billion in damage to property and crops annually. Large hail stones can fall at speeds faster than 100 mph. The costliest U.S. hailstorm occurred in Denver, Co., in July 1990. The total damage was $625 million. What you can do? Be safe and use the following three steps: Before the storm... - Check weather forecasts before leaving for extended periods outdoors. - Watch for signs of approaching storms. - Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. When a thunderstorm approaches... - Remember, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Proceed to safe shelter immediately. - Move to a sturdy building or car. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees or in convertible automobiles. - Get out of boats and stay away from water. - Avoid using the telephone or any other electrical appliances. Use the phone only in an emergency. - Do not take a bath or shower. - Turn off air conditioners. - Get to higher ground if flooding is possible. Abandon cars and climb to higher ground, as most flash flood deaths occur in automobiles. If caught outdoors and no shelter is nearby... - Find a low spot away from trees, fences and poles. Make sure the place is not subject to flooding. - If you are in the woods, take shelter under the shorter trees. - If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stand on end, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact with the ground. Information in this article courtesy of the American Red Cross.