Some did not hear the warning, while others heard the warning but did not heed it. Once you receive a warning or observe threatening skies, you must make the decision to seek shelter before the storm arrives. It could be the most important decision you will ever make. Tornadoes occur in many parts of the world and in each of the 50 U.S. states. However, no area is more favorable to their formation than the continental plains and Gulf Coast of the U.S. during April, May and June.
Tornadoes are least frequent in the United States during the winter months.
However, Alabamians know first hand that damaging tornadoes can develop at any time of year. Several deadly tornadoes swept across the state this past fall and, just last week, high winds from severe thunderstorms caused a death and much damage. Tornadoes travel at an average speed of 30 miles per hour, but speeds ranging from stationary to 70 miles per hour have been reported, says Dr. Tony Cook, Extension program specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Most tornadoes move from the southwest to the northeast, but their direction of travel can be erratic and change suddenly. In populated areas, it is very dangerous to attempt to flee to safety in an automobile.