Squatch Out: Keeping yourself safe from tornadoes

(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — The transition from May to June is historically one of the most active times for severe weather here in Southern Colorado. Tornadic activity tends to pick up during this time too and Colorado can be a bit of a hotspot.

Due to Colorado’s rural nature, away from big cities, tornadoes tend to mostly impact open land. However, tornadoes have been known to hit bigger population areas around the state. Just last year the DuVall family ranch was destroyed in Prowers County but the entire family survived because they all sought shelter in their basement.

So, how can you best keep yourself safe from tornadoes? When there is severe weather in the forecast, make sure you have a plan for seeking out a sturdy shelter. The best way to stay safe is to avoid a dangerous situation altogether.

Tornadoes in particular warrant extra planning as they can be incredibly devastating and dangerous. Because all tornadoes happen above the surface, the safest place you can be is underground.

If you don’t have access to a basement or an underground shelter, your next best option is to head to the most interior room on the lowest floor. The more walls you can put between yourself and the outside, the better.

It is also important to avoid as many windows as you can; flying debris from tornadoes is one of the most dangerous parts of the storm.

Tornadoes get extra dangerous if you happen to be caught outside in the open or inside your vehicle. Seek sturdy shelter immediately if this is the case. However, if you are in a vehicle with no other options do not try to outrun a tornado. Leave your vehicle and seek shelter in a ditch or a low-lying area as a last resort.

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