Tornadoes...     (continued from page 7  ) Over the past 40 years this region has averaged one tornado each year. And there is reason to believe that many tornadoes go unreported due to the sparse population. As the populated area of southwestern New Mexico and far western Texas expands, it is likely the number of observed tornadoes will increase, along with incidents of damage and injury.

Strong and violent tornadoes are relatively common over the Texas panhandle. This tornado developed near the town of Dimmit.

Fortunately the overwhelming majority of tornadoes over the Borderland are weak and short lived with wind speeds less than 100 mph, widths smaller than 100 yards, and lifetimes shorter than 5 minutes. However even weaker tornadoes can have sufficient power to rip a roof off of a house or to severely damage a mobile home or trailer. And every few years weather conditions come together across southwestern New Mexico and far western Texas which are actually favorable for more destructive tornadoes, mainly during the late spring and early autumn. Area residents should always stay alert for tornadoes whenever strong thunderstorms are in the vicinity.

Persons traveling should remember that as one ventures east of the Rocky mountains during the spring and early summer, the threat of being struck by a strong or violent tornado increases dramatically. In May of 1970, a very destructive tornado killed 26 people and caused massive property damage in Lubbock, Texas. Another violent tornado struck the west Texas town of Saragosa in May, 1987, causing 30 fatalities and massive damage. And in May 1991, and again in June 1992,  strong tornadoes caused serious damage and injuries in and around Carlsbad, New Mexico.  Persons traveling east of the Rockies should accordingly get the latest weather forecasts and information along their route of travel.

Tornado Safety Rules   Before the storms strike:       o Always get the latest weather information by listening to  NOAA Weather Radio or local               television and radio stations.   Remember when the National Weather Service issues a               TORNADO WATCH,   it indicates  weather  conditions are favorable for tornado development                within the next several hours.  When a TORNADO  WARNING is  issued, it means a tornado                is already on the ground or  may develop within the next 10 minutes.      When severe thunderstorms or tornadoes approach your area:      o  In a home or building move to pre-designated shelter or basement.       o   If an underground shelter or basement is not available, move to an interior room or hallway               away from windows.       o   Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be              abandoned.       o  Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead leave it immediately if the tornado is              moving in your direction.       o  If caught outside stay as low as possible and seek safety in a ditch or culvert. Flying debris              from tornadoes causes most deaths and injuries.   return to page 1                                                      page 8                                           go to page 9