Tornadoes occur naturally and are most prevalent in Texas. When it happens a lot of objects are vulnerable; mobile homes, brick buildings, and cars are also included.
However, tornado in Texas is especially challenging for seniors. This explains why adequate care needs to be taken to lower its effect on older adults. Following are some signs to help you know if a tornado will occur:
Funnel-Shaped and Rotating Cloud
This is one of the signs to look out for in tornadoes. It is the most obvious characteristic of a tornado. Tornadoes are known for their extremely low-pressure level. This low pressure creates a funnel-shaped cloud dropping from a thunderstorm to the ground.
Although, not all funnel extends toward the ground to form a tornado. On the other hand, every tornado does not form a funnel that reaches the ground. Irrespective of the situation, whenever you see any of these indications understand there is a possibility of a tornado.
In addition, the funnel-shaped clouds might not be visible. They can become visible after collecting dust and debris from the surrounding environment. Meaning, it might be difficult for older adults to see a cloud.
If you have older loved ones, always take all precautions ahead to ensure they are safe. Or you can move them to communities where their safety will be guaranteed.
Cloud of Debris
Asides from the rotating funnel-shaped cloud, another thing visible thing to look out for is a cloud of debris in the surrounding environment where the tornado formed.
This sign might not be noticeable until it starts collecting debris and other objects around. Once you start noticing this sign, ensure your loved ones are kept safe. If your loved ones are in a car or outside all precautions must be taken for them to a cover.
This is because tornadoes move at high speed (reaching more than 300 mph). In addition, any loose objects in the tornado will be thrown with a lot of force and speed. This can cause injury to people and damage to properties.
Lastly, to ensure loose objects do not become a dangerous projectiles secure them properly.
Change in Color
Another sign of a coming tornado is an unusual color in the thunderstorm. You might notice a black, green, or green color, keep in mind the thunderstorm is a tornado. This color change is a result of the massive size of the thunderstorm hence covering the sunlight. In some instances, there might be hail, heavy rains, and winds.
Once you have noticed this sign, take instant action by ensuring your older loved ones are in a secure place.
Unusual Loud Noises
There are indications of a coming tornado that are not visual. Sometimes, tornadoes create roaring sounds. The sound is always louder and can be compared to the sound of a speeding train or stampeding.
One of the things that contribute to this sound is the debris, once debris starts crashing the noise increases. So, if you hear noises that are unusually loud instantly move your loved ones to a secure shelter.
