Tornado! (Part Two)

Not only is Chicago a world class city and home to a beautiful waterfront, Chicago is also the dwelling for some of the most wicked weather. In April of 1967, an F4 tornado caused $50 million dollars in damage as it plowed through the south side of Chicago. But, according to some of the myths I've heard through the years, a tornado within Chicago city limits was never supposed to happen.

Addressing Chicago Tornado Myths

Ever since I was an inquisitive fourth grader, I've taken a great interest in tornadoes and the stories concerning them. A couple of my favorite Chicago tornado myths are: Lake Michigan will keep tornadoes from touching down in the city and a tornado will never touch down in Chicago because of downtown’s skyscrapers.

However, after twisters touched down in downtown Miami and downtown Nashville we now know that tornadoes can and will develop in highly populated areas with tall buildings, including Chicago.

Stay Informed

When a severe weather watch is announced, take notice of weather alerts and your environment. Understand that if a tornado is approaching you will not always hear it or see a funnel. The Plainfield, Illinois tornado was actually hidden in rain and hail, but in the end, the tornado killed 29 people and caused 140 million dollars in damages.

Have A Plan

When the National Weather Service issues a tornado watch this means weather conditions are right to produce a tornado. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, this means a tornado is present and you should seek shelter immediately.

It would help to have a plan in place and a meeting spot in your home. Keep in mind that tornadoes develop fast and a warning does not always go out to the general public in a timely fashion. A meeting spot will ensure that everyone in the house will know where to go in case of a tornado emergency.

Also, always keep a survival kit in a duffel bag or in the designated meeting area. This bag or area should contain a first aid kit, cellular phone, non-perishable food items, water, a flashlight, fresh batteries and a battery operated radio or TV.