Tornadoes And Thunderstorms

TORNADOES AND THUNDERSTORMS

by Douglas Henderson

Tornadoes are spawned from powerful thunderstorms that often precede an advancing cold front. They exist in other areas of the world but are most prevalent in the United States, where most areas face some risk of tornadoes, especially in spring. Thunderstorms alone are fairly common in areas of the world where warm and humid atmospheric conditions clash.

All businesses that are exposed to the risk of tornadoes or thunderstorms need a plan of action. Your business-continuation plan should address the important overall planning areas-alternate sites, adequate insurance, post-disaster communications, executive control, etc. Planning for tornadoes and thunderstorms should focus largely on employee safety issues.

TORNADOES: Generally, a brief warning period precedes a tornado, but there is never enough time to take emergency measures to save the facility. Survival measures are the top priority. If a tornado watch is issued, somebody should listen to the Weather Channel, NOAA Weather Radio, or a radio station that provides regular weather reports. In the event of a tornado alert, post an observer and be prepared to take cover.

In a building, general guidelines include proceeding to the interior area of the lowest level possible (preferably underground) -- but never take the elevator (good advice during any disaster). Get under a sturdy table, stay away from windows, and cover your face.

Businesses that have employees outside need to develop and communicate special safety instructions. When a tornado watch is issued, someone should be assigned to monitor weather reports and periodically check weather conditions. When the tornado is in progress or is about to occur, discontinue outdoor activities and take urgent action. Depending on your location, keep the following in mind:

• Get out of a mobile home.
• If you're driving, steer clear of an approaching tornado or abandon the vehicle immediately. Remember that tornadoes can move swiftly and are often erratic.
• In an open field, lie face down in the nearest ditch or ravine (watch for flash flooding) and cover your head with both hands. This is wiser than remaining in a vehicle or mobile home.

THUNDERSTORMS AND LIGHTNING: Thunderstorms are a greatly underestimated hazard, partially because they are so common. In reality, thunderstorms can cause flash floods, produce damaging hail, create strong winds, spawn tornadoes, and discharge lightning.

Most business facilities are or can be designed to withstand significant damage resulting from thunderstorm wind, rain, hail, and (to a lesser extent) lightning strikes. All important electrical devices should be connected to surge protectors. Install UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) units for critical equipment in which the loss of power may result in a loss of important information or equipment damage.

Even with appropriate electrical-protection equipment in place, it may still make sense to power down and disconnect electrical equipment before a severe thunderstorm strikes. Electrical wires as well as any electricity-conducting materials should not be touched during a thunderstorm.

As with tornadoes, safety measures are critically important for businesses that have employees in outdoor areas. When atmospheric conditions are favorable for thunderstorm development, someone should be assigned to monitor weather reports and weather conditions. When thunderstorms are occurring or are about to occur, discontinue outdoor activities and seek shelter. Note that lightning strikes often precede the actual thunderstorm, and should signal the need for precautions.

If lightning threatens your area, take cover inside a home or building. Avoid water fixtures, telephone lines, and any electricity-conducting materials. Because motor vehicles are supported on rubber tires (an effective electric insulator), they are generally safe from lightning strikes.

If you are outside and unable to reach a safe shelter, apply the following rules:

• In an open area, go to the nearest ditch or ravine and drop to your knees (be alert to the possibility of flash flooding). Do not:
• stand in an open area
• stand underneath a tall tree (especially one located in an isolated area)
• seek shelter in a small structure in an open area

Other advice includes:

• In a wooded area, go to a low area of small trees or bushes
• Stay away from anything metal, including farm equipment, golf clubs, wire fences, etc.
• Stay away from beaches and any open areas of water

This advice should help you start devising a plan to respond to tornadoes and thunderstorms. A good plan will save lives and reduce, if not entirely avoid, legal exposures. Be sure to explain the new plan to all employees and insist on a review of the instructions at a later date.