Introduction
A tornado is defined as "a mobile, destructive vortex of violently rotating winds having the appearance of a funnel-shaped cloud and advancing beneath a large storm system." Tornadoes can vary from just 50 yards to 1 mile in width. Most tornadoes in the US are small and weak (EF-0 or EF-1), but rare EF-5 tornadoes pack winds in excess of 200 mph!
Tornadoes in Tennessee
| Tornadoes in Tennessee* | |
|---|---|
| Year | Total |
| 2008 | 43 |
| 2009 | 46 |
| 2010 | 33 |
| 2011 | 106 |
| 2012 | 26 |
| 2013 | 47 |
| 2014 | 24 |
| 2015 | 19 |
| 2016 | 11 |
| 2017 | 34 |
| 2018 | 25 |
| 2019 | 19 |
| *Source: National Weather Service | |
Be prepared - Tornado Season is March through May.
The most likely time for tornadoes to appear in Tennessee is March through May, but when conditions are right, tornadoes can appear at any time of the year. Take steps now to be prepared if a tornado strikes. Learn about the Vanderbilt Severe Weather Warning System, and the Quick Reference Guides, so that you can develop your personal severe weather plan for actions you will take in the event of a tornado emergency.
- Know where you plan to go if the sirens sound.
- Practice a "tornado drill" at least once a year.
- Use the buddy system to check in after an incident to keep others from worrying and have a pre-determined place to meet after an incident occurs.
- Make your friends and family aware of the potential for tornadoes in the area.
- Get informed about upcoming severe weather and stay alert for severe weather Watches and Warnings:
- Monitor local television, radio and NOAA Weather Radio.
- Monitor online sources for current weather conditions.
- Install weather apps on all your mobile devices.