Tornadoes in Stillwater, Oklahoma: A Historical Perspective Key Statistics and Facts About Tornadoes in Stillwater, Oklahoma Frequently Asked Questions About Tornadoes in Stillwater, Oklahoma
Stillwater, Oklahoma, is located in the heart of Tornado Alley, a region of the central United States that experiences a high frequency of tornadoes. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Stillwater has an average of 3.5 tornadoes per year, making it one of the most tornado-prone cities in the country.
Historical Tornadoes in Stillwater
The most destructive tornado to hit Stillwater occurred on May 22, 1979. The F5 tornado killed 10 people, injured 200, and caused an estimated $100 million in damage. The tornado was part of a larger outbreak that spawned 26 tornadoes across Oklahoma and Kansas, causing widespread damage and loss of life.
Another significant tornado struck Stillwater on May 3, 1999. The F4 tornado caused 14 injuries and over $30 million in damage. The tornado damaged or destroyed 200 homes and businesses, including the campus of Oklahoma State University.
Tornado Safety in Stillwater
The threat of tornadoes is a serious concern for residents of Stillwater. The city has a comprehensive tornado preparedness plan that includes:
- A system of tornado sirens to warn residents of approaching tornadoes
- Designated tornado shelters in public buildings and schools
- Public education programs on tornado safety
- Community tornado drills to practice emergency procedures
What to Do During a Tornado
If you are in Stillwater when a tornado warning is issued, it is important to take immediate action to protect yourself. Here are some safety tips:
- Seek shelter in a designated tornado shelter or in the lowest level of a sturdy building.
- Stay away from windows and doors.
- Cover your head and body with a blanket or pillow.
- If you are outside, lie down in a ditch or other low-lying area and cover your head with your hands.
- Do not attempt to drive your car during a tornado.
Tornado Forecasting and Research
NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center (SPC) in Norman, Oklahoma, is responsible for forecasting tornadoes and issuing tornado warnings for Stillwater and the surrounding area. The SPC uses a variety of data, including radar, satellite, and weather balloons, to track tornadoes and predict their path.
Researchers at Oklahoma State University and other institutions are also working to improve tornado forecasting and safety. Scientists are developing new technologies to detect tornadoes earlier and more accurately, and they are studying the behavior of tornadoes to better understand how they form and move.
Conclusion
Tornadoes are a serious threat to the residents of Stillwater, Oklahoma, but the city is well-prepared to respond to these storms. By following the safety tips provided in this article, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones during a tornado.
- Stillwater has an average of 3.5 tornadoes per year, making it one of the most tornado-prone cities in the US.
- The deadliest tornado in Stillwater’s history occurred on May 22, 1979, and killed 10 people.
- The most destructive tornado in Stillwater’s history occurred on May 3, 1999, and caused over $30 million in damage.
- Stillwater has a comprehensive tornado preparedness plan that includes tornado sirens, designated tornado shelters, and public education programs.
- The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, is responsible for forecasting tornadoes and issuing tornado warnings for Stillwater and the surrounding area.
- Researchers at Oklahoma State University and other institutions are working to improve tornado forecasting and safety.
Q: What should I do if I am in Stillwater when a tornado warning is issued?
A: Seek shelter in a designated tornado shelter or in the lowest level of a sturdy building. Stay away from windows and doors, cover your head and body with a blanket or pillow, and do not attempt to drive your car.
Q: Where can I find a tornado shelter in Stillwater?
A: Stillwater has a number of designated tornado shelters, including the Payne County Expo Center, the Stillwater Community Center, and the Oklahoma State University Student Union.
Q: How can I stay informed about tornado warnings?
A: You can stay informed about tornado warnings by listening to local radio or TV stations, checking the NOAA website, or downloading a weather app to your phone.
Q: What are the warning signs of a tornado?
A: Warning signs of a tornado include a dark, rotating cloud, a funnel cloud, or a loud roar. If you see any of these signs, take shelter immediately.
