Deadly Palm Sunday, 1965
Wednesday April 11th marked the
42nd anniversary of the deadly
Palm Sunday tornados that left a path of death and destruction across
North Central Indiana. Local people still
recall the horror of that terrible storm with a death toll of 49
people.
It could easily happen again. Spring time in Indiana brings another Tornado
Season. In an average year, 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide resulting in
80 deaths and over 1,500 injuries with untold property damage. The most
violent tornados are capable of tremendous destruction with wind speeds of 250
MPH or more. Some of the damage paths have been known to stretch over a mile
wide and over 50 miles long. They can cause millions of dollars in damage.
Do you know what to look out for?
- A darkened or greenish color sky
- A wall cloud
- Large hail
- Loud roar like that of a freight train
- Some appear as a visible funnel cloud while others are obscured by rain
or other clouds
Are you prepared in case of emergency?
- Pick two places to meet; one outside the home and one away from home in
case you can't return
- Choose an out of-state friend as your 'family check-in contact'
for everyone to call in case you get separated.
- Prepare a Disaster Supply kit. It should include:
- 3 day water supply(one gallon per person per day)
- Food that won't spoil
- One change of clothes and shoes per person
- A blanket and sleeping bag per person
- First Aid kit and prescription medication
- Emergency tools: hammer, knife, pliers, hatchet, screwdrivers,
rope, duct tape
- Flash lights and extra batteries
- Portable radio and extra batteries
- Extra car keys, credit cards, cash
- Any other special items for infants or elderly
|
Will your family and loved ones know what to do?
- If you're in a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter or a
basement.
- If a basement is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on
the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture like a desk or
table.
- Stay away from windows.
- When driving your car, never try to outrun a tornado. Get out of the car
immediately.
- If you're outside, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression.
- If you live in a mobile home, get out immediately. They provide little
protection even if tied down.
Every year, many people are killed or seriously injured by tornadoes
despite advanced warning. Being prepared and heeding warning bulletins and
signs could save your family's life if a tornado hits your area.
 Be
prepared! |
| Know
the signs! |
| Seek
Shelter immediately! |
|
