During the spring months, March through May, is peak tornado season in Tennessee. However, there's also a secondary fall tornado season that runs around November each year. During this time, the number of tornadoes in Tennessee is significantly lower than during the spring.
Tornados develop when warm, moist air from the ground meets colder air above. When the two sets of winds collide, they create a wind shear. The shear forces the twister to form and accelerates its forward progress.
The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center issues rolling 8-day tornado outlooks, highlighting potential areas that could be impacted by storms. Meteorologists then get an idea of what's in store by analyzing data specific to Middle Tennessee.
According to the Weather Service, there have been more than 300 confirmed tornadoes in Tennessee since 1950. There are a few things you can do to prepare yourself and your family for a possible tornado.
Sign up for severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service via text, email, or phone and learn what to do if a severe thunderstorm is on the way. Talk to your family about tornadoes and make sure everyone knows where to go if there are any warnings.
Stock up on supplies and have a safe room in your home ready in case of a tornado. It should be an interior room in the lowest floor level, away from windows.
If a tornado is on the way, move as quickly as possible to your safe room. This will help prevent serious injuries and deaths, and it will allow you to take care of your loved ones while they're safe.
