New Mexico tornado alert: Dos and Don'ts to stay safe amid rising threat
A tornado was spotted in Clovis. One social media user warned, 'Anyone in the Clovis area should take shelter if possible. There is an immediate tornado warning in Curry County and Roosevelt County.' A similar warning was issued for Portales.
Residents in east central New Mexico received urgent warnings on Sunday evening as the National Weather Service (NWS) in Albuquerque issued two Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for Curry, Roosevelt, Colfax, and Union counties.
They warned of large hail, 60 mph wind gusts, and possible damage to cars, roofs, and trees. The warnings were in effect until 6:30 PM and 6:00 PM MDT, respectively.
At 5:49 PM MDT, the NWS reported a severe thunderstorm located 6 miles northwest of Oasis State Park and 10 miles northwest of Portales, moving northeast at 15 mph. This storm had quarter-sized hail (1 inch) and 60 mph winds and threatened Clovis, Cannon Air Force Base, Floyd, and Portair, as well as Highway 60 between mile markers 372 and 386.
Radar showed that the storm could damage vehicles and cause wind-related harm to houses and trees. The NWS urged residents to take shelter in sturdy buildings and stay away from windows. KOB 4 reported that local authorities warned drivers to watch for slick roads due to hail accumulation.
At the same time, a second warning was updated at 5:35 PM MDT targeted east central Colfax and west central Union counties. A thunderstorm located 10 miles north of Farley and 21 miles southwest of Des Moines was moving east at 25 mph.
This storm posed a greater threat, with two-inch hail that could injure people and animals outdoors and 60 mph winds. Affected areas included rural regions and Highway 64 near mile marker 379.
The NWS warned of 'considerable' damage potential, stressing risks to roofs, windows, and vehicles. KRQE reported that emergency services were on the lookout for road hazards from debris and urged residents to stay indoors.
Here is a list of 'Dos and Don'ts' to keep in mind:
Dos: Life-saving actions
Seek immediate shelter
In homes or small buildings:
Go to the basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, such as a closet or bathroom. Avoid windows and cover yourself with a mattress or heavy blankets.
In mobile homes or vehicles:
Abandon them immediately. Mobile homes offer no protection during a tornado. Seek shelter in a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a low-lying area, covering your head with your arms.
Stay informed:
Use a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio or a reliable weather app to receive real-time alerts. Ensure your devices are charged and have backup power sources available.
Prepare an emergency kit
Equip your shelter with essential supplies:
Keep flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, water, essential medications, sturdy shoes, and protective clothing handy.
Practice drills:
Regularly conduct tornado drills with all household members.
Familiarity with the plan ensures quicker and more efficient action during an actual event.
Don'ts: Common mistakes to avoid
Don't stay in unsafe structures:
Never remain in mobile homes, vehicles, or temporary structures during a tornado. These offer minimal protection and can be easily destroyed.
Don't open windows:
Contrary to popular belief, opening windows does not equalize pressure and can increase the risk of injury from flying debris.
Keep windows closed and secure.
Don't shelter under overpasses:
Seeking shelter under overpasses is dangerous. The wind tunnel effect can intensify winds, increasing the risk of injury.
Don't hesitate:
Tornadoes can form rapidly. If a warning is issued, do not wait for confirmation or further information. Immediate action is crucial.
Post-tornado safety
Stay indoors:
Avoid returning to damaged buildings until authorities declare them safe.
Avoid downed power lines:
Assume all downed lines are live and stay clear.
Use phones sparingly:
Limit phone use to emergency calls to keep lines open for responders.
Assist neighbors:
Check on elderly or disabled neighbors who may need help.
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