Weak Tornadoes

Information on Weak Tornadoes:
• 69% of all tornadoes.
• Less than 5% of tornado deaths.
• Lifetime 1-10+ minutes.
• Winds less than 110 mph.

Strong Tornadoes

Information on Strong Tornadoes:
• 29% of all tornadoes.
• Nearly 30% of all tornado deaths.
• May last 20 minutes or longer.
• Winds 110-205 mph.

Violent Tornadoes

Information on Violent Tornadoes:
• Only 2% of all tornadoes.
• 70% of all tornado deaths.
• Lifetime can exceed 1 hour.
• Winds greater than 205 mph.

Tornado Myths:

MYTH: Areas near rivers, lakes, and mountains are safe from tornadoes.
FACT: No place is safe from tornadoes. In the late 1980's, a tornado swept through Yellowstone National Park leaving a path of destruction up and down a 10,000 ft. mountain.

MYTH: The low pressure with a tornado causes buildings to "explode" as the tornado passes overhead.
FACT: Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause most structural damage.

MYTH: Windows should be opened before a tornado approaches to equalize pressure and minimize damage.
FACT: Opening windows allows damaging winds to enter the structure. Leave the windows alone; instead, immediately go to a safe place.