Fast, destructive, deadly and feared are a few words that describe tornadoes. Giant, rotating columns of air that descend from thunderstorms, tornadoes can be costly to both property and human life when they touch the ground.

Mix together a supply of warm, humid air near the surface, a nearby low pressure disturbance to help lift the air and strong atmospheric winds with height and you have a tornado. These conditions can typically be found in the Southeast two times a year; from March to May and from November to December from noon to 8 p.m. and occur in storms moving from the southwest toward the northeast.

With wind speeds from 50 to 300 mph, tornadoes should not be taken lightly. They can move quickly, up to 70 mph, or be stationary. Quick to form, you may only have a few seconds to react and find shelter. Listening to weather bulletins and taking appropriate action can be the difference between life and death.

Protecting Your Home Against Tornado Damage (PDF Format)