March Marks Start of Active Tornado ‘Season’



Georgia has already experienced its first deadly tornadoes this year, claiming a life and causing harm and damage in 15 counties across the state.

March marks the start of a three-month active tornado season in the Southeast, making now the time for Georgians to get ready by preparing, planning and staying informed with Ready Georgia, the state’s emergency preparedness campaign.

“Tornadoes have terrorized both rural and urban areas in Georgia’s recent history, making anyone vulnerable to their hazards,” said Charley English, director of the Georgia Emergency Management Agency. “Just last March, an EF-2 tornado tore a six-mile path through the heart of downtown Atlanta.

The next day, twisters ripped through Polk, Floyd, Jefferson, Burke, Butts and Bartow counties. Three people died as a result of these storms, and seven counties received a federal disaster declaration. These tragedies and others clearly demonstrate why every Georgian needs to be prepared.”

Tornadoes have proven to be some of nature’s most violent storms that can generate wind speeds of more than 250 mph and can appear out of nowhere with little warning. Being prepared to act quickly by having a plan in place and practicing how and where to take shelter is crucial to mitigating the effects of a tornado.

Visit www.ready.ga.gov for more Georgia-specific tornado preparedness information and to create a customized Ready kit checklist and communications plan for your family or business.


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