Tornado Touchdowns in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Lead to Surge in Searches for Tornado Safety
A tornado touched down in Rocky Mount, North Carolina on July 21st, 2023, causing widespread damage. The tornado touched down at approximately 1:00 PM EST and was rated EF-3 on the Enhanced Fujita scale. The tornado traveled for approximately 10 miles and had winds up to 165 mph.
The tornado caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles. Several people were injured, but there were no fatalities. The tornado also caused power outages and road closures.
The tornado has led to a surge in searches for tornado safety and preparedness. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a number of safety tips for people living in tornado-prone areas.
These tips include:
- Have a plan. Know what you will do if a tornado warning is issued for your area.
- Have a safe place to go. This could be a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
- Stay informed. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or your local news for updates on severe weather conditions.
- Be prepared to take shelter. If a tornado warning is issued, go to your safe place immediately.
- Do not try to outrun a tornado. Tornadoes can move faster than 70 mph.
- If you are in a car, pull over to the side of the road and get out of the vehicle. Lie down in a ditch or other low-lying area.
The NWS also recommends that people have a survival kit in their homes or businesses. This kit should include food, water, first-aid supplies, and other essential items.
The tornado in Rocky Mount is a reminder that tornadoes can strike anywhere, even in areas that are not considered to be tornado-prone. It is important to be prepared for the possibility of a tornado and to know what to do if one strikes.
Here are some additional tips for tornado safety:
- If you live in a mobile home, know where the nearest sturdy building is and have a plan to get there in the event of a tornado warning.
- If you are outside when a tornado warning is issued, find a low-lying area and lie down. Cover your head and neck with your arms.
- If you are in a car when a tornado warning is issued, pull over to the side of the road and get out of the car. Lie down in a ditch or other low-lying area.
- Do not try to drive through a tornado.
- Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or your local news for updates on severe weather conditions.
By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself and your family from the dangers of tornadoes.
