Arkansas is no stranger to tornadoes, with the state experiencing an average of 20-25 tornadoes each year. Tornadoes can occur at any time during the year, but peak season is typically in April and May. In Arkansas, these storms can cause significant damage and destruction to homes and businesses, as well as endanger lives. This article will look at the risks posed by tornadoes in Arkansas and the safety precautions that can be taken to protect yourself and your family.
What are Tornadoes?
Tornadoes are rapidly rotating columns of air that form under thunderstorms. These storms can extend from the ground to the cloud base, and often appear as a funnel-shaped cloud. Tornadoes usually move in a southwest to northeast direction at speeds of 10–20 miles per hour. They produce powerful winds and intense pressure changes which can cause devastating destruction to anything in their path. Tornadoes can occur anywhere in Arkansas, however they are most common in the northwest and central parts of the state where thunderstorms and strong winds are more frequent.
Why are Tornadoes Dangerous?
Tornadoes are dangerous for a variety of reasons. Strong winds and intense pressure changes associated with tornadoes can cause significant damage to homes, buildings, and infrastructure such as power lines and bridges. Flying debris from overturned vehicles, broken windows, or other materials can also pose a danger to people in the area. In addition to physical damage, tornadoes can create hazardous conditions such as flooding or extreme heat.
Arkansas Tornado Statistics
Tornadoes in Arkansas can cause significant damage and destruction, so it’s important to be aware of the risks posed by these storms. According to the National Weather Service, there have been 20-25 tornadoes in Arkansas each year since records began being kept in 1950.
Causes of Tornadoes in Arkansas
Geography of Arkansas
Arkansas is located in the south-central United States, and is bordered by five states; Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. It has a diverse landscape that ranges from the Ouachita Mountains in the west to the lowlands of the Mississippi Delta near the eastern border. Arkansas experiences hot summers and mild winters with occasional snowfall. The state’s location and topography can contribute to the formation of tornadoes.
Climate of Arkansas
The climate of Arkansas is typically humid and subtropical, with warm summers and mild winters. The state usually experiences an average of 200 days of sunshine each year. During the summer months, temperatures can reach the mid-90s (Fahrenheit) while in the winter they rarely dip to freezing or below. However, these temperatures can vary significantly depending on location within the state; northern Arkansas is cooler than southern Arkansas due to its higher elevation.
Storm Patterns in Arkansas
Arkansas is prone to severe weather, including tornadoes. Tornadoes in Arkansas are most likely to occur between April and May, although they can happen at any time of the year due to the state’s topography and climate. The northwest and central parts of the state typically experience more tornadoes due to their higher elevation and warm temperatures which create instability in the atmosphere.
Seasonal Trends in Tornadoes in Arkansas
Spring Tornadoes
Spring is typically the peak season for tornadoes in Arkansas, with most storms occurring between late March and early May. During this time, warm air from the Gulf of Mexico clashes with cooler air moving in from the north, creating instability in the atmosphere which can lead to thunderstorms and tornadoes. These storms often occur at night or during the evening hours when temperatures are still relatively warm. Spring tornadoes in Arkansas can be some of the most destructive due to their speed and intensity.
Summer Tornadoes
Tornadoes in Arkansas are also possible during the summer months, although they are generally less frequent than during the spring. Summer tornadoes tend to occur during the afternoon when temperatures reach their highest levels and humidity is at its peak. These storms can be intense but usually don’t last as long as spring tornadoes. Summer tornadoes are typically associated with severe thunderstorms that often produce heavy rains and hail.
Fall Tornadoes
Tornadoes in Arkansas during the fall months tend to be less frequent than in the spring and summer, but they can still occur. These storms usually form when warm air from the Gulf of Mexico clashes with cooler air moving in from the north, creating instability in the atmosphere. Fall tornadoes usually occur during the afternoon hours and generally move more slowly than their spring counterparts.
Winter Tornadoes
Tornadoes in Arkansas are also possible during the winter months, although they tend to be less frequent than during other times of the year. Winter tornadoes usually form when warm air from the south clashes with cold air from the north, creating instability in the atmosphere. These storms typically occur during the afternoon or evening hours and can be some of the most destructive due to their speed and intensity.
The Impact of Tornadoes in Arkansas
Property Damage
Tornadoes in Arkansas can cause devastating property damage. Strong winds associated with tornadoes can level homes, businesses, and other structures, while hail and heavy rain can cause major flooding. Trees may be uprooted or snapped by strong winds, leading to further property damage and potential power outages. Tornadoes can also cause injuries or fatalities due to flying debris or falling objects. The aftermath of a tornado can take months or even years to recover from.
Injuries and Fatalities
Tornadoes in Arkansas can also cause injuries or fatalities due to flying debris or falling objects. Tornadoes are a destructive force of nature, capable of destroying homes, businesses, and other structures within seconds. People in the path of an approaching tornado may be at risk for serious injury or even death as a result of flying debris and falling objects. People should take shelter in a secure location, such as a basement or storm cellar, when a tornado is approaching.
Economic Impact
The economic impact of tornadoes in Arkansas can be devastating. Tornadoes can damage homes, businesses, and other structures which can result in costly repairs or even complete destruction. The cost of rebuilding or replacing damaged or destroyed property can be substantial, especially for those without adequate insurance coverage. In addition to the direct costs associated with repairing tornado damage, there are also indirect costs such as lost wages due to business closures and reduced tourism revenue.
Psychological Effects
The psychological effects of tornadoes in Arkansas can be devastating. Those affected by a tornado may experience feelings of shock, fear, anxiety, and depression as they cope with the aftermath of such a powerful storm. The physical destruction caused by tornadoes can also cause emotional distress as people come to terms with the loss of property or loved ones. In addition, people may feel a sense of guilt or helplessness as they try to rebuild and recover from such a traumatic event. Professional counseling can help those affected by a tornado cope with the psychological effects of such a disaster.
Preparing for Arkansas Tornadoes
Tornado Safety Plan
Having a tornado safety plan in place is essential for Arkansans who want to protect themselves and their families in the event of a tornado. Developing a plan should include discussing what to do during a tornado, where to go for shelter, what items to have ready, and how to communicate with family members.
Emergency Supplies
In preparation for a tornado, it is important to have emergency supplies on hand. These supplies should include flashlights, radios, bottled water, non-perishable food items, first aid kits, and other essential items. It is also important to have any necessary medications and medical equipment available in case of injury or illness. Additionally, it is a good idea to have an emergency contact list with names and phone numbers of family members, friends, and neighbors.
Tornado Warnings and Alerts
It is important to stay informed about the weather when living in Arkansas, as tornadoes can occur without much warning. The National Weather Service issues tornado watches and warnings to alert people of an impending severe storm. A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for a tornado to form, while a warning means that a tornado has been detected either by radar or by a trained spotter. It is important to take shelter immediately when a tornado warning is issued.
Conclusion
Tornadoes in Arkansas can be devastating and can cause serious injury or death. It is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure that you are prepared for such a severe storm. Having an emergency safety plan, having emergency supplies ready, and staying informed about tornado warnings and alerts are essential steps for Arkansans to take when preparing for tornadoes. By following these steps, people can be better prepared for a tornado and have greater peace of mind.
