Trying to reach shelter in this way, blocks roads and does not guarantee safety.

“Opening windows to equalize air pressure will save a roof, or even a home, from destruction by a tornado.”

Quite the reverse. Such an aperture can allow a massive ingress of air which can blow the house apart.

“Some towns are ‘protected!'”

Some towns escape tornadoes when in fact short memories of past events and sheer luck have given rise to this myth. Just because a town hasn’t been hit doesn’t mean it’s protected – just means that so far it’s been fortunate. If the area is prone then it’s only a matter of time.

“The southwest corner of a basement is the safest location during passage of a tornado”

This piece of perceived wisdom possibly came about as a result of one anecdotal incident and has been taken as gospel ever since. The reasoning for this appears to be sound, but in fact it’s reckoned that taking refuge in this way is more risky than adopting other positions within a cellar or basement.

MYTH: Tornados only occur in the spring months.

Most tornados do occur during the months from March to June and from 3 to 9 PM. However, tornados have been recorded in every month and at all times of the day and night.

MYTH: Tornados only occur in the central and southern states.

Although tornados are more common in the plains states, they have been recorded in every state.

MYTH: Windows should be opened to equalize pressure and minimize damage.

In fact, opening windows allows violent winds to enter the building. Do not waste time with windows if a tornado warning is issued; instead, seek shelter immediately.

MYTH: The low pressure a tornado creates will cause buildings to explode.

Scientific evidence shows this is not true. In fact violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause the most damage.

Myth or Misconception #5 …. Highway overpasses are a safe place to shelter if you are on the road when you see a tornado coming.

*****************************************

*****All Information from

*************University of Arkansas

http://www.phpl.uark.edu/ehs/disaster_tornado_facts.html

*****BONUS ANSWER****** LOL!

Facts about tornados:

Tornados usually form in eastward moving thunderstorms in advance of a cold front. During the spring months, particularly in the central plains area, thunderstorms form along a dry line. This dry line is an area which separates warm, moist air to the east from hot, dry air in the west. Tornados frequently occur in this type of storm front.

Although scientists do not know what exactly causes tornados,

there are several indications that a storm is likely to produce one. These indicators include: large hail,

dark green or blackish sky color,

the presence of a rotating wall cloud and a loud roar similar to a freight train.

A wall cloud is a lower lying cloud formation with an area of rotation. The area below a wall cloud is usually rain-free. This is a strong indication that a tornado is likely. There is often a strange quiet during, or immediately after, a thunderstorm: this also can be an indicator of a possible tornado. The funnel cloud may be obscured by heavy rains, or it may not appear to reach the ground. Debris being pulled upwards is a sure sign a tornado is present.

Interesting link below

http://www.tornadoproject.com/