Tyndall Tornado Awareness

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Rachelle Elsea
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE, Fla. --  Originally Florida was not a state associated with tornadoes, but in the past two decades it has had more tornadoes and related deaths than most frequented states such as Oklahoma, Nebraska and Iowa.

According to statistics, the "Sunshine State," is now ranked third, following Kansas and Texas, and fourth in tornado deaths since 1990.

Several waning signs are a dark, often greenish sky, large hail, a large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating,) or a loud roar, similar to a freight train.

Although tornadoes usually last around 15 minutes, the damage they leave behind can be permanent. The winds alone can reach up to 300 miles per hour and their paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long.

Therefore, it is important to be aware of base procedures taken during tornado watches and warnings. The two have many differences, but a constant is the announcement made on the "Giant Voice" system, followed by a three to five minute steady tone.

Watches are issued when tornado activity is possible and usually precede a warning and are issued in severe weather bulletins by the 325th Operations Support Squadron weather flight.

When the watch is issued, the occurrence, location and timing of the tornado are uncertain.

Individuals should monitor local media for the latest advisories and be prepared to take shelter.

Shelter should be taken in a centrally-located hallway or room on the lowest floor, a closet, or small room of the building. It is vital to ensure that these locations are not near windows, doors or wide ceilings.

A tornado warning, on the other hand, is issued when a tornado exists. The tornado can most times be seen or is visible on the weather scope. The warning will indicate the tornado's location and direction of travel at the time of detection.

Seek shelter immediately after receiving the warning and remain there until an "all clear" message is given.

After the tornado has cleared, check those around the area for injuries and seek help if needed. Report damage to the Unit Control Center and avoid hazards.

For more information contact the unit emergency management representative and refer to Tyndall Air Force Base comprehensive emergency management plan 10-2.