Tips to surviving local weather hazards Published June 1, 2010 By Tech. Sgt. Chris Swenson 17th Civil Engineer Squadron GOODFELLOW AFB, Texas -- Last year 366 people died in the U.S. due to hazardous weather. Even though this number is considerably lower from the 567 deaths in 2008, the national average still stands at 629 a year, and Texas accounts for 39 of these deaths. Making poor decisions during hazardous weather conditions lessens your chance of survival. Here are some statistics to think about and advice on how to stay alive when faced with adverse weather. FLOODING Flooding accounts for more deaths worldwide every year than any other natural disaster. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service reports from 1979 - 2008 show flooding claims an average of 93 people each year. The Center for Disease Control reports more than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood waters. Walking into or near flood waters is rated second. It only takes six inches of moving water to sweep people off their feet and 24 inches to move a car. What options are there when faced with a washed out road? Simply stay away from any area that looks even remotely flooded - whether driving or walking. "Turn Around Don't Drown," a national campaign slogan started by local resident Hector Guerrero in 2003 and adopted nationally in 2007, reminds us of the hazards associated with flash floods. TORNADOES Tornadoes are probably the most interesting weather condition to experience in West Texas. Since 1950, Tom Green County has had 49 tornadoes. Four of those tornados touched down just before midnight April 9, 2008, and caused more than $6 million in damages to the local community. Some may remember a large tornado that swept across base May 26, 1998, leaving two people injured and $1.3 million worth of damage. The most damaging tornado in San Angelo killed 13 people on May 11,1953. It was spawned by the same storm cell that killed 114 people in Waco, Texas - the 10th most deadly tornado in U.S. history. Good, quick decision making is the key to surviving a tornado. Ways to increase survivability in a tornado are: If indoors, go to the middle of an interior room on the lowest floor of the building such as a closet or hallway. Get under a sturdy piece of furniture and make a shield with blankets, pillows and if possible, a mattress. If in a mobile home, get out immediately and seek shelter in a stronger building. If outdoors without shelter, lay flat on the ground in a depression or ditch and cover your head with your hands. Do not seek shelter under a bridge or overpass. Do not try to photograph or film the tornado. HEAT Extreme heat is quickly becoming the nation's most deadly weather hazard. Heat-related fatalities have been officially tracked since 1986 and shows the national average at 138 deaths a year. San Angelo receives 251 days of sunshine each year and temperatures average 96 degrees in July and August, but it's not uncommon to have several consecutive days above 100 degrees. Remember to stay hydrated, use sunscreen and stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. Hazardous weather is deadly but making good decisions during hazardous weather conditions can increase your chance of survival. Don't cross low water crossings, watch for tornado warnings, stay hydrated and always know your limits. For more information, visit https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/GAFB_REM or www.ready.gov.
