By Jasilyn Spivey
Staff Writer
Whether you are new to Oklahoma or have lived here your whole life, Tornado season is something you should be aware of and prepared for.
Spring in Oklahoma marks the onset of warmer weather and the beginning of tornado season in the state. Oklahoma is one of the states that are in tornado alley, which is the corridor-shaped region in the Midwestern United States where tornadoes typically occur.
There are a few precautions that students and faculty can take to be safe during this tornado season. Before a tornado occurs, you should know the signs.
Rotating, funnel shaped clouds, approaching clouds of debris, the color of the sky changing, and/or a strange quiet during or after a thunderstorm could be a sign of a tornado. You should also pay attention to weather reports, so it would be smart to have weather notifications on.
Making a plan for taking shelter is also really important. Langston University has multiple tornado shelters all over campus. If you are in or near Scholars Inn, there is a shelter in the clubhouse basement; if you’re near or in Centennial or Young Hall you can go to the Moore Hall basement, and if you’re in Commons Apartments you can go to the agriculture building.
During a Tornado you need to find shelter and stay there until it is cleared. When inside, cover your head and neck with your arms to protect yourself. You can also put clothes and/or furniture around or on top of you to shield yourself. If you are outside or in a vehicle do not try to outrun a tornado. Find a ravine or ditch and cover yourself with anything you have.
After a tornado, you still need to pay attention to the alert systems for updates because another one could form, or another storm could blow through. Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines. If you got injured or are sick, seek medical attention. Be careful during clean-up and wear appropriate gear. Debris may be dangerous. Understanding safety precautions for tornados can be the difference between life and death.
