Tornadoes, characterized by their destructive high winds and swirling columns of air, are natural disasters that strike fear into the hearts of those in their path. While these violent storms cannot be prevented or controlled, scientists and meteorologists have made great strides in understanding their formation and developing strategies for tornado mitigation. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating science behind tornadoes, explore the various strategies employed to mitigate their impact, and examine the effectiveness of these measures in protecting lives and property.
Understanding the science behind tornado formation is crucial to developing effective strategies for tornado mitigation. Tornadoes often originate from severe thunderstorms, where warm, moist air clashes with cooler, drier air, creating an unstable atmosphere. As the warm air rises and the cooler air sinks, it creates a rotating updraft called a mesocyclone. Under certain conditions, this mesocyclone can intensify, leading to the development of a tornado. By studying the atmospheric conditions that give rise to these storms, scientists and meteorologists can provide early warnings and develop sophisticated detection systems, enhancing preparedness and response efforts.
Understanding the Science of Tornadoes
A. Formation and development of tornadoes
Tornadoes are powerful and destructive weather phenomena characterized by a rapidly rotating column of air that is in contact with both the surface of the Earth and a cumulonimbus cloud. They typically form in severe thunderstorms and are often accompanied by strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning. Understanding the formation and development of tornadoes is crucial for effective tornado mitigation strategies.
Tornadoes form when there is a combination of atmospheric conditions that create a rotating updraft. These conditions include wind shear, instability, and a triggering mechanism such as a thunderstorm. Wind shear is the change in wind speed and direction with height, while instability refers to the presence of warm, moist air in the lower atmosphere. When these factors align, it creates a rotating updraft known as a mesocyclone.
As the mesocyclone intensifies, a tornado funnel may descend from the base of the thunderstorm. This funnel is initially invisible, but it becomes visible when water droplets and debris are picked up, forming a visible condensation funnel or a cloud of debris. The rotating column of air extends from the cloud to the ground, and it can cause widespread damage as it moves across the surface.
B. Key factors that contribute to tornado intensity
Tornadoes vary in intensity, ranging from weak EF0 tornadoes to extremely violent EF5 tornadoes. Several factors contribute to the intensity of tornadoes, including wind speed, path length, path width, and the amount and type of debris picked up by the tornado.
Wind speed is one of the most significant factors determining the intensity of a tornado. The Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale categorizes tornadoes based on estimated wind speeds and associated damage. For example, an EF0 tornado has wind speeds between 65 and 85 miles per hour, while an EF5 tornado has wind speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour.
The path length and width of a tornado also affect its intensity. Longer and wider tornadoes tend to cause more extensive damage compared to smaller tornadoes with shorter paths. Additionally, the amount and type of debris carried by the tornado can significantly impact the destruction it causes. Debris acts as projectiles, leading to greater damage to structures and increasing the threat to human life.
C. Understanding tornado warning systems
Tornado warning systems play a crucial role in tornado mitigation by providing timely alerts to the public, enabling them to seek shelter and prepare for potential tornado impacts. These systems utilize various technologies and methods to detect and track tornadoes.
One of the primary tools used in tornado warning systems is Doppler radar. Doppler radar can detect the rotation within thunderstorms and provide valuable information about the formation and movement of tornadoes. Doppler radar data help meteorologists issue tornado warnings based on the observed rotation and other storm characteristics.
In addition to radar, tornado warning systems rely on weather spotters and storm chasers who provide ground-level observations of tornado activity. These individuals play an important role in confirming tornado sightings and relaying information to weather agencies and emergency management officials.
Tornado warning systems also utilize sirens as an audible alert to warn people outdoors of an imminent tornado. However, it is essential to note that sirens are not intended to be the sole source of warning, as they may not be heard indoors. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to have multiple sources of information and to have a personal plan in place for receiving tornado alerts, such as NOAA weather radios or smartphone alert apps.
By understanding the science behind tornado formation, the factors contributing to tornado intensity, and the mechanisms of tornado warning systems, communities can enhance their preparedness and response strategies for these severe weather events. Effective tornado mitigation requires a combination of meteorological knowledge, technological advancements, and public awareness efforts to minimize the impacts of tornadoes and protect lives and property.
Tornado Vulnerability and Impacts
A. Understanding the damage caused by tornadoes
Tornadoes are among the most destructive natural disasters, causing widespread damage to structures, infrastructure, and landscapes. The immense power and wind speeds of tornadoes can result in the complete destruction of buildings, uprooting of trees, and the formation of large debris fields. The damage caused by a tornado is often categorized on the Fujita scale, which classifies tornadoes based on the extent of damage they leave in their wake. The scale ranges from F0, representing minimal damage, to F5, representing total destruction. Understanding the different types of damage caused by tornadoes is crucial in developing effective mitigation strategies and engineering structures that can withstand their forces.
B. Identifying areas prone to tornadoes
Certain regions of the world are more susceptible to tornadoes due to a combination of atmospheric conditions and geographical factors. In the United States, the central plains, commonly referred to as Tornado Alley, experiences the highest frequency of tornadoes. Tornado-prone areas are characterized by a unique combination of warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico colliding with cooler, drier air from the north. Additionally, the presence of topographical features such as hills and mountains can influence the formation and path of tornadoes. By identifying areas prone to tornadoes, authorities can develop targeted mitigation strategies and allocate resources to those regions that are at higher risk.
C. Evaluating the economic and human impact of tornadoes
Tornadoes not only cause physical damage but also have significant economic and human impacts. The destruction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure can result in substantial economic losses for affected communities. Additionally, tornadoes can lead to the loss of life and cause injuries to individuals caught in their path. Evaluating the economic and human impact of tornadoes is essential for understanding the magnitude of these events and the need for effective mitigation measures. By quantifying the impact of tornadoes, policymakers can make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, emergency response planning, and community support.
In conclusion, tornado vulnerability and impacts highlight the devastating consequences that tornadoes can have on communities. Understanding the damage caused by tornadoes, identifying high-risk areas, and evaluating their economic and human impacts are crucial steps in developing effective tornado mitigation strategies. By implementing measures to protect structures, improving early warning systems, and raising public awareness, communities can work towards reducing the impact of tornadoes and safeguarding lives and property. Continued research, investment in technology, and community engagement are all vital in the ongoing efforts to mitigate the destructive power of tornadoes.
ITornado Mitigation Strategies: Building Design and Construction
A. Implementing tornado-resistant building codes
Tornado-resistant building codes play a crucial role in mitigating the devastating effects of tornadoes. These codes establish strict construction standards and guidelines that focus on enhancing the structural integrity of buildings to withstand tornadoes. By ensuring that buildings are built to withstand strong winds and flying debris, the risk of damage and potential loss of life can be significantly reduced.
Building codes typically require structures to be reinforced with materials that are resistant to high winds, such as reinforced concrete or steel. Additionally, specific construction techniques are mandated, such as using roof tie-downs, reinforced walls, and impact-resistant windows. These measures are designed to prevent structural collapse and minimize the potential for debris penetration.
B. Designing and constructing tornado-safe structures
In addition to implementing tornado-resistant building codes, designing and constructing tornado-safe structures is another effective strategy for tornado mitigation. Tornado-safe structures, such as tornado shelters and safe rooms, provide a designated space where individuals can seek refuge during a tornado event. These structures are built to withstand extreme wind speeds and flying debris.
Tornado shelters are typically located below ground, such as in basements or specially built underground bunkers. They are constructed with reinforced materials, such as concrete or steel, and have airtight doors to prevent debris from entering. Safe rooms, on the other hand, can be located on any floor of a building and are reinforced with materials that can withstand tornado-force winds.
C. Strengthening existing buildings against tornadoes
Retrofitting existing buildings to withstand tornadoes is another aspect of tornado mitigation. Strengthening techniques involve reinforcing the vulnerable areas of a building, such as roofs, walls, and windows, to improve their resistance to high winds and flying debris.
Common retrofitting methods include adding storm shutters or impact-resistant window film, reinforcing roof trusses, and installing wind-resistant garage doors. These measures can help prevent the destruction of buildings during tornado events, reducing the risk of injuries and fatalities.
To ensure widespread implementation of tornado mitigation strategies, it is vital for building owners, architects, engineers, and construction professionals to be well-informed about the latest standards and practices. Continuous education and training programs can help promote the adoption of tornado-resistant building design and construction techniques.
By implementing tornado-resistant building codes, designing tornado-safe structures, and retrofitting existing buildings, communities can greatly enhance their resilience to tornadoes. These strategies not only save lives but also protect valuable infrastructure and minimize the economic impact of tornado events. It is imperative that governments, communities, and individuals prioritize tornado mitigation measures to create safer and more resilient environments.
Advanced Meteorological Techniques for Tornado Prediction
A. Utilizing Doppler radar for tornado detection
Doppler radar plays a vital role in tornado detection and warning systems. By analyzing the movement of precipitation particles in the atmosphere, Doppler radar can identify the circulation patterns associated with tornado formation. This allows meteorologists to issue timely and accurate tornado warnings, providing essential lead-time for affected communities to take necessary precautions.
The Doppler radar system uses the Doppler effect to measure the velocity of objects in motion, such as raindrops or debris within a tornado. By comparing the wavelength of the radar signals emitted and the wavelength of the signals reflected back, meteorologists can determine the speed and direction of the objects. This information helps identify tornado signatures and enhances tornado prediction capabilities.
B. Assessing atmospheric conditions for tornado forecasting
In addition to Doppler radar, meteorologists rely on various atmospheric conditions to forecast tornadoes. They analyze factors such as wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity, and atmospheric instability to determine the likelihood of tornado development. Key atmospheric indicators include the presence of a strong vertical wind shear and the existence of a supercell thunderstorm, which provides the necessary rotation for tornado formation.
Advanced computer models and numerical simulations are used to analyze and interpret these atmospheric conditions. By inputting current weather data into these models, meteorologists can simulate and predict potential tornado events. These models are continually refined and updated, enabling more accurate tornado forecasts.
C. Incorporating artificial intelligence in tornado prediction models
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing tornado prediction models by improving the accuracy and speed of tornado forecasts. By analyzing vast amounts of meteorological data and historical tornado records, AI algorithms can identify patterns and correlations that humans may miss. This allows for more precise tornado predictions and the ability to detect rare or subtle tornado events.
Furthermore, AI-powered tornado prediction models can continuously learn and adapt to new data, leading to more accurate and proactive warnings. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the false alarm rate, which helps build trust and confidence in the tornado warning system among the public.
As AI technology advances, researchers are exploring its potential for real-time tornado tracking and prediction. By integrating AI algorithms into weather monitoring systems, meteorologists may be able to provide even earlier tornado warnings, saving more lives and minimizing property damage.
In conclusion, advanced meteorological techniques such as Doppler radar, analysis of atmospheric conditions, and the incorporation of artificial intelligence are critical for improving tornado prediction capabilities. These technologies help in providing timely and accurate warnings, ultimately saving lives and mitigating the devastating impacts of tornadoes. As advancements continue, the future of tornado prediction looks promising, with the potential for even more accurate forecasts and enhanced emergency response systems.
Early Warning Systems: the Role of Tornado Sirens
A. Introduction and purpose of tornado sirens
Tornado sirens play a crucial role in tornado mitigation efforts by providing early warning and alerting communities to the imminent danger of a tornado. These sirens are designed to emit loud, distinct sounds that can be heard from a distance, ensuring that as many people as possible are alerted to take immediate action.
The primary purpose of tornado sirens is to provide a warning system that can reach a large number of people simultaneously, including those who may not have access to technology or may not be paying attention to weather updates. By using a combination of loud, distinctive tones, tornado sirens effectively capture people’s attention and prompt them to seek shelter.
B. Expanding and improving tornado siren networks
Expanding and improving tornado siren networks is crucial to ensure effective tornado mitigation. One key aspect of this is the geographic placement of sirens throughout at-risk areas. Siren locations should be strategically chosen to provide optimal coverage, minimizing the chances of individuals missing the warning signals. This requires careful analysis of tornado-prone areas and consideration of factors such as population density, transportation routes, and natural barriers.
Improving siren technology is also essential. Advances in technology have allowed for innovations such as modernizing sirens with voice announcements and integrating them into larger emergency alert systems. These enhancements provide more comprehensive information to the public, including specific details about the tornado’s location, severity, and anticipated path. By conveying this information, individuals can make more informed decisions about their safety and take appropriate actions.
C. Overcoming challenges in tornado siren implementation
While tornado sirens are valuable tools for tornado mitigation, there are challenges to their effective implementation. One challenge is the issue of false alarms, which can lead to complacency among the public and reduce the credibility of the warning system. False alarms can be triggered by factors such as faulty equipment or uncertainties in predicting tornado behavior. It is crucial to invest in technologies and methodologies that minimize false alarms and improve the accuracy of siren activations.
Another challenge is ensuring that the public knows how to respond when tornado sirens are activated. Education and awareness campaigns are essential to familiarize individuals with the meaning of different siren sounds, the appropriate actions to take, and the location of designated tornado shelters or safe rooms.
Additionally, there may be barriers to implementing sirens in certain areas, such as budget limitations or difficult terrain. Overcoming these challenges requires collaboration among government agencies, community leaders, and residents to develop creative solutions and secure the necessary resources.
In conclusion, tornado sirens serve as a critical component of early warning systems for tornadoes. Expanding and improving the siren network, along with addressing challenges in implementation, can significantly enhance tornado mitigation efforts. By ensuring that tornado sirens are effectively placed, technologically advanced, and supported by public education initiatives, communities can enhance their preparedness and minimize the devastating impacts of tornadoes.
## VTornado Emergency Preparedness and Response
### A. Creating tornado emergency preparedness plans
Creating effective tornado emergency preparedness plans is crucial in minimizing the potential damage and loss of life caused by tornadoes. These plans involve proactive measures and guidelines that individuals, families, and communities can follow before, during, and after a tornado event.
Tornado emergency preparedness plans should include the following key components:
1. **Risk assessment**: Assessing the risk level of tornadoes in a particular region is essential for developing an effective emergency preparedness plan. This involves researching historical tornado data, analyzing geographical factors that contribute to tornado formation, and considering the vulnerability of residences and infrastructure.
2. **Early warning systems**: Establishing reliable and robust tornado warning systems is critical for alerting residents about approaching tornadoes. These systems may include sirens, weather radios, smartphone apps, and emergency alert notifications. It is crucial to ensure that the warning systems are regularly tested, well-maintained, and accessible to all community members.
3. **Evacuation procedures**: Developing evacuation procedures that outline safe routes and shelter locations is essential. Emergency management authorities should identify designated tornado shelters, such as community centers, schools, or underground facilities, and disseminate this information to the public. It is crucial to ensure that these shelters are adequately equipped with supplies, communication tools, and emergency medical services.
### B. Designating tornado shelters and safe rooms
Designating tornado shelters and safe rooms within homes and public buildings is a vital aspect of tornado emergency preparedness. Safe rooms are reinforced structures that provide enhanced protection against high winds and flying debris. These rooms are typically constructed using materials resistant to tornadoes, such as concrete, reinforced steel, and reinforced masonry.
In addition to safe rooms, public buildings like schools, hospitals, and government facilities should have designated tornado shelters. These shelters should be easily accessible, well-maintained, and capable of withstanding a tornado’s intense winds. Regular drills and exercises should be conducted to familiarize occupants with shelter locations and evacuation procedures.
### C. Educating the public on tornado safety measures
Public education plays a critical role in tornado emergency preparedness and response. It is essential to educate individuals and communities about tornado safety measures and provide them with the necessary knowledge to protect themselves during tornado events. This education should include:
1. **Understanding tornado warnings**: Educating the public about tornado warning systems, including siren meanings, emergency alerts, and weather radio usage.
2. **Safe sheltering practices**: Educating individuals about the best places to seek shelter during a tornado, such as basements, safe rooms, or small interior rooms on the lowest level of a building. Additionally, teaching people to protect themselves from flying debris by covering themselves with mattresses, blankets, or helmets.
3. **Emergency supply kits**: Encouraging individuals to assemble emergency supply kits that include essential items such as non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and personal documents.
4. **Communication strategies**: Promoting effective communication methods among community members during tornado events, including establishing communication trees or using social media platforms for updates and information sharing.
By implementing comprehensive tornado emergency preparedness plans, designating safe shelters, and educating the public on tornado safety measures, communities can significantly improve their response to tornado events and mitigate the potential risks associated with these destructive natural phenomena.
Tornado Research and Lifesaving Technologies
A. Funding and promoting tornado research initiatives
Tornadoes are destructive natural disasters that can cause significant loss of life and property damage. In order to mitigate the impact of tornadoes, it is essential to invest in tornado research initiatives. Funding and promoting research in this field can help scientists and meteorologists gain a better understanding of tornado formation and behavior, which can lead to improved prediction models and lifesaving technologies.
By providing adequate funding for tornado research, governments and organizations can support the development of advanced meteorological techniques and innovative technologies. This includes investing in state-of-the-art equipment such as Doppler radar systems and weather monitoring instruments. Additionally, financial support can enable research institutions to conduct comprehensive studies on tornado behavior, atmospheric conditions, and the effectiveness of current mitigation strategies.
Promoting tornado research initiatives also involves encouraging collaboration among scientists, meteorologists, and other experts in related fields. By fostering partnerships between research institutions, universities, and government agencies, the exchange of knowledge and ideas can be facilitated. This collaboration can lead to breakthroughs in tornado prediction, tracking, and warning dissemination technology.
B. Developments in tornado detection and tracking technologies
Advancements in tornado detection and tracking technologies have significantly improved our ability to predict and monitor tornadoes. Doppler radar has revolutionized tornado detection by providing real-time information about tornado formation and movement. This technology utilizes the Doppler effect to measure the velocity of precipitation particles within storms, allowing meteorologists to detect rotation patterns associated with tornadoes.
In recent years, there have been significant developments in mobile weather radar systems, which can be deployed to areas at risk of tornadoes. These portable radar systems provide high-resolution data and can track tornadoes with a level of accuracy that was previously unattainable. This allows for more targeted tornado warnings and better coordination of emergency response efforts.
Furthermore, advancements in satellite imagery and remote sensing technology have enhanced tornado tracking capabilities. Satellites equipped with specialized sensors can detect tornado signatures, such as strong updrafts and rotating cloud formations, from space. This provides valuable information for meteorologists to identify and track tornadoes, particularly in remote or inaccessible areas.
C. Innovations in warning dissemination systems
Effectively communicating tornado warnings to the public is crucial for saving lives during tornado events. Traditional methods of tornado warning dissemination, such as sirens and broadcast media, have limitations in terms of reach and effectiveness. However, advancements in technology have opened up new avenues for warning dissemination.
One such innovation is the utilization of wireless emergency alerts (WEAs), which allow authorities to send tornado warnings directly to the mobile phones of individuals in affected areas. These alerts are based on geolocation data and provide timely and location-specific information, ensuring that people receive warnings even if they are away from traditional warning systems.
Another advancement is the integration of emergency alert systems with smart home devices and personal virtual assistants. These devices can receive and broadcast tornado warnings, ensuring that individuals in their homes are promptly alerted to potential dangers. Additionally, the development of smartphone applications dedicated to tornado alerts and emergency preparedness can further enhance the dissemination of warnings and provide useful information to users.
In conclusion, ongoing research initiatives, developments in tornado detection and tracking technologies, and innovations in warning dissemination systems are integral to tornado mitigation efforts. Continued investment in research and the implementation of these technologies can improve our understanding of tornadoes, enhance prediction accuracy, and save lives. By funding research, supporting technological advancements, and improving warning dissemination systems, communities can work towards reducing the devastating impacts of tornadoes.
The Role of Community Engagement in Tornado Mitigation
Encouraging community-wide tornado drills and exercises
Community engagement plays a vital role in mitigating the impact of tornadoes. One effective strategy is the implementation of community-wide tornado drills and exercises. These drills simulate real-life tornado scenarios and help residents practice appropriate safety measures in response to a tornado warning. By participating in regular drills, community members become familiar with the necessary actions to take when a tornado strikes.
Tornado drills provide an opportunity for community members to learn how to seek shelter in designated safe areas, such as basements, interior rooms, or storm cellars. They also allow residents to practice emergency communication methods, such as using weather radios or mobile devices to stay updated with tornado warnings. Through repetition and reinforcement, community-wide tornado drills help individuals develop a sense of preparedness and react swiftly during an actual tornado event.
Promoting awareness and education about tornado preparedness
Another important aspect of community engagement in tornado mitigation is promoting awareness and education about tornado preparedness. Many people may not fully understand the potential risks associated with tornadoes or may underestimate the severity of a tornado threat. By raising awareness and providing accurate information about tornado preparedness, communities can empower individuals to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their property.
Education campaigns can include distributing informative materials, organizing informational sessions, and utilizing various communication channels to reach a wide audience. These efforts can focus on topics such as understanding tornado warning systems, identifying safe shelter locations, and creating emergency preparedness plans. Additionally, educating the public about the importance of having a disaster supply kit and maintaining an emergency communication plan can significantly enhance community resilience in the face of a tornado.
Strengthening collaboration among government, agencies, and residents
Effective tornado mitigation requires strong collaboration among various stakeholders, including government entities, emergency management agencies, and residents. By working together, these groups can ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to tornado preparedness and response.
Government authorities can play a crucial role in establishing and enforcing building codes that prioritize tornado resistance. They can also allocate resources for tornado research and warning dissemination systems. Emergency management agencies can develop and implement community-wide emergency plans, designate tornado shelters, and provide training to residents.
Residents, on the other hand, can actively participate in community organizations and initiatives focused on tornado preparedness. They can follow official guidance and instructions during tornado events, report any potential tornado sightings to local authorities, and provide feedback to improve emergency response efforts.
By strengthening collaboration among all these stakeholders, communities can enhance their resilience to tornadoes and mitigate their potential impact. Through collective action and a shared commitment to tornado preparedness, communities can minimize the loss of life and property during tornado events.
Overall, community engagement is a critical component of tornado mitigation. Encouraging community-wide tornado drills and exercises, promoting awareness and education about tornado preparedness, and strengthening collaboration among government, agencies, and residents can significantly contribute to the collective effort of reducing the vulnerability of communities to tornadoes. It is through these combined measures that communities can maximize their preparedness and response capabilities, ultimately saving lives and minimizing the devastating consequences of tornadoes.
Tornado Mitigation: The Importance of Implementing Strategies for Safety
X. Conclusion
Tornadoes are powerful and destructive weather phenomena that can cause substantial damage to both property and human lives. It is crucial to implement proper mitigation strategies to minimize the impact of tornadoes and protect vulnerable communities. Throughout this article, we have explored various techniques and approaches to tornado mitigation, including building design and construction, advanced meteorological techniques, early warning systems, emergency preparedness and response, lifesaving technologies, and community engagement.
A. Recap of Key Strategies for Tornado Mitigation
One of the fundamental strategies for tornado mitigation is the implementation of tornado-resistant building codes. By enforcing strict building standards, communities can ensure that structures are more resilient to tornadoes. Additionally, designing and constructing tornado-safe structures, such as tornado shelters and safe rooms, can provide a safe haven for individuals during tornado events. Strengthening existing buildings against tornadoes through retrofitting and reinforcement measures is also crucial in enhancing their resistance to severe winds.
B. Emphasizing the Importance of Implementing Tornado Mitigation Measures
It is imperative for individuals, communities, and governments to recognize the significance of implementing tornado mitigation measures. By investing in resilient infrastructure, communities can minimize the devastating effects of tornadoes and protect both lives and property. The economic and human impact of tornadoes can be significantly reduced through proactive measures, including early warning systems, emergency preparedness plans, and community-wide tornado drills and exercises.
C. Exploration of Future Possibilities in Tornado Research and Prevention Technologies
While significant strides have been made in tornado mitigation, there is always room for improvement. Ongoing research initiatives and advancements in tornado detection and tracking technologies hold the promise of even more accurate tornado forecasts and warnings. The incorporation of artificial intelligence in tornado prediction models can further enhance our ability to anticipate tornadoes and issue timely alerts. Continued funding and promotion of tornado research initiatives are essential to drive innovation and improve tornado preparedness.
In conclusion, tornado mitigation plays a crucial role in safeguarding communities and minimizing the devastating impact of tornadoes. By implementing strategies such as tornado-resistant building codes, advanced meteorological techniques, early warning systems, emergency preparedness and response plans, and community engagement, we can significantly reduce the vulnerability and enhance the safety of tornado-prone regions. It is important for individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize tornado mitigation measures and invest in research and prevention technologies to build more resilient communities for the future.