ALABAMA TORNADO STATISTICS
Did you know that the state of Alabama experiences more tornadoes and tornado-related fatalities than other states?
A recent study comparing the number of tornadoes over the last 30 years found that the number of confirmed tornadoes in the last decade has doubled compared to the previous two decades. Some of the numbers that have increased are found easier and confirmed due to several factors, including an increase in population, better technology, trained storm spotters, and better-informed citizens.
Alabama ranks fifth in the number of “killer tornadoes” when compared to other states. According to Storm Prediction Center records between 1980 and 2009, Alabama experienced 38 killer tornadoes, which resulted in 165 fatalities. All the more reason to be prepared and stay informed!
FEMA compliant Alabama underground tornado storm shelters, above-ground concrete shelters and above ground steel FEMA compliant shelters may be the safest place for someone to go during violent weather. We are protected underground from strong winds, falling trees, flying debris and hail. A storm with a tornado can do intense, random, and isolated damage. Tornadoes may strike quickly, with little or no warning. Tornadoes can destroy structures and lift vehicles. Tornadoes may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel. Tornadoes generally move Southwest to Northeast, but they have been known to move in any direction. The average forward speed of a tornado is 30 MPH, but may vary from stationary to 70 MPH. Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land. Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water. Tornadoes are most frequently reported east of the Rocky Mountains during spring and summer months. Peak tornado season is March through May; Tuscaloosa has a second tornado season from November to early December. Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. but can occur at any time. The average tornado lasts less than 10 minutes, but it can last from seconds to more than an hour.
FEMA is now urging us to be prepared and have a safe place to go. We hope that last wave of storms in Alabama will not be seen again, but we can’t be sure and risk that it won’t happen. The Alabama Association of Emergency Managers through FEMA will be offering grants to each county for underground tornado storm shelters or above ground safe rooms. Please contact your EMA representative in your county and ask to fill out an application for these grants. Lake Martin Storm Shelters is working hand in hand with the EMA to help provide quotes and information concerning these applications. We offer free consulting for anyone looking at purchasing a FEMA compliant underground or above ground tornado storm shelter in Alabama.
If you don’t want an underground fiberglass storm shelter or an above-ground steel safe room, we will help you find what you’re looking for in another type of shelter. The most important thing for everyone is to make a plan, stay safe, and find shelter.