The Rise of a New Tornado Alley: Southeastern States Face Increasing Tornado Threat
In recent years, the Southeastern United States has become a new hotspot for tornado activity, putting more populated areas in the path of destruction. A study published on the American Meteorological Society’s website revealed a significant decrease of 25% in tornadic activity in the Great Plains over the past 35 years, while the Southeast experienced a 12% increase during the same period. This shift has led researchers to dub the region as a new Tornado Alley.
States such as Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and Kentucky have seen a surge in tornadoes, according to the study. The impact of this increase in severe weather events has prompted many residents to take precautions and invest in storm shelters.
Mark Brasfield, owner of Nashville Safe House, has witnessed an unprecedented demand for storm shelters in the Southeast. With over three decades of experience, he claims to have never seen such intense interest until now. Brasfield’s business has boomed, with his phone ringing off the hook as people seek to purchase storm shelters for their homes. He compares these shelters to insurance, stating that while you hope you never have to use them, it brings peace of mind to have them available.
To meet the growing demand, Brasfield ensures that his shelters comply with the standards set by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These shelters are constructed with a quarter inch of steel, reinforced walls, and a dozen six-inch bolts, making them capable of withstanding winds up to 200 mph, equivalent to an EF-5 tornado. The fear of tornadoes is particularly acute for those who have recently relocated to the Southeast from areas with little to no tornado activity.
Lawrence Behrs, who moved from California to Tennessee ten years ago, shares his experience of trading earthquakes and wildfires for tornadoes. Seeking a safe haven, Behrs and his wife explored their options but ultimately realized that complete safety from tornadoes does not exist. In December, they decided to invest in a family-sized storm shelter from Brasfield. The shelter was installed in January, just in time for the already active tornado season in their area. Behrs describes it as a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.
The National Weather Service in Nashville has issued 14 tornado warnings this year alone, highlighting the increased threat facing residents. When a tornado warning is issued, Behrs and his wife quickly gather their “go bag” and head to the storm shelter. Located just steps away from their home and securely bolted to the garage floor, the shelter provides them with a sense of security during these intense weather events. Behrs hopes that the worst-case scenario of his home being destroyed while the shelter remains intact never becomes a reality.
On average, the United States experiences approximately 1,425 tornadoes each year, with nearly half occurring between April and June, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center. As the Southeastern states face an increasing tornado threat, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their properties.
