Getting prepared for tornadoes in Bruce County

Did you know that Canada experiences, on average, about 50 tornadoes per year? Canadians see more tornadoes than any other country in the world, except for the United States. Bruce County is no exception and has experienced tornado watches as recently as this summer.

Bruce County emergency management urges all residents and visitors of the county to be aware of tornado risks and to know what to do if there are tornado watches or warnings issued.

Tornadoes are rotating columns of high winds that often accompany a severe thunderstorm. The winds can move up to 70 km/h and can cause widespread destruction in their path. Tornadoes are unpredictable and can change direction quickly.

Signs of an impending tornado may include the following:
 

• Severe thunderstorms
• An extremely dark sky sometimes with green or yellow clouds
• Flying debris can cause a rumbling or whistling sound
• You may see a funnel cloud at the base of a thundercloud

Everyone should know what to do if you witness any of the above signs of a tornado.

Here are some tips based on your location at the time:
 

• In a house - get to the basement or a small interior room on the main floor, such as a bathroom or closet; you can protect yourself by getting under a heavy table or desk; stay away from windows and doors
• In a recreational vehicle or mobile home - try to find shelter in a building with a strong foundation; if that is not available, get away from the recreational vehicle or mobile home and crouch down in a ditch
• In a gymnasium, church, or auditorium - take cover under a sturdy structure, such as a table or desk
• In a vehicle - if the tornado is in the distance, try to get to a solid structure; if it is close by, get out of the vehicle and take cover in a low-lying area, such as a ditch

"Tornadoes can be very deceptive,” says ray Lux, Bruce County emergency management co-ordinator. “They may appear to be standing still, but in fact, they may be moving toward you.

“We encourage all Bruce County residents and visitors to heed tornado watches and warnings that may be issued. Have a plan in place whether you are at work, home, the cottage or one of our beautiful parks. Know the risks and where you would go to get shelter.”

Discover more about emergency preparedness at www.brucecounty.on.ca/getprepared.