Tornado Season

7/11/2020 (Permalink)

Tornado season across the country is technically winding down, but that doesn’t mean the rotating columns of wind are gone completely. In Maine, it seems peevish to worry about a tornado, as Maine only averages about 2 a year. However, the possibility is still there and should be planned for in the chance a tornado does come tearing through your town, especially if you live in the western regions of Maine.

How To Prepare

• Have supplies ready for your shelter
• Plan the route to your shelter with your family
• Develop contingency plans in the event the original goes awry
• Listen to your local weather forecast, especially if there is a tornado warning

The Warning Signs

• A dark funnel-shaped cloud approaching
• An approaching cloud of debris
• A loud roar—similar to a freight train 

What To Do

• Execute your shelter plans with you family
• Listen to your National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) broadcast to receive updates of the status of the tornado in your area
• Stay away from windows and shield yourself if you cannot

What To Do After

• Stay away from downed power lines
• Do not enter structures unless told or can reasonably assume it is stable

As rare as tornadoes are in Maine, do not underestimate their power and their capability of mass destruction. Stay safe, be smart!