Another series of tornadoes hit Oklahoma on Friday night and many residents were caught on Interstate 40 when it hit. Residents were very scared from the EF-5 (strongest tornado rating) tornado that hit the area the week before and were desperate to avoid being caught in storm's path. Cars were backed up for miles on the major roadways and people had to sit in their cars as they saw the storm turn towards them. There was no where to go.
Here's a terrifying description of what happened to a woman and her baby that were trapped in the car:
"They were traveling on the interstate and their car was sucked up into the tornado and they were sucked out of their car," Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper Betsy Randolph said.
That is just horrible stuff.
Tornado Safety Guidelines
Here's the NOAA's safety guidelines for when a tornado warning is issues in your area. Here's the section on being in a car:
Vehicles are extremely risky in a tornado. There is no safe option when caught in a tornado in a car, just slightly less-dangerous ones. If the tornado is visible, far away, and the traffic is light, you may be able to drive out of its path by moving at right angles to the tornado. Seek shelter in a sturdy building, or underground if possible. If you are caught by extreme winds or flying debris, park the car as quickly and safely as possible — out of the traffic lanes. Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows; cover your head with your hands and a blanket, coat, or other cushion if possible. If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway,leave your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands. Avoid seeking shelter under bridges, which can create deadly traffic hazards while offering little protection against flying debris.
And here's the picture they have associated with the car guideline:
Video of Storm Chasers Caught Near the OK Tornado on May 31, 2013
Here's some storm chasers who got caught near one of the tornadoes:
The Weather Channel Tornado Hunt Car Got Thrown by Tornado
VIDEO: Tornado Hits The Weather Channel Tornado Hunt Crew! wxch.nl/11hSsKg
— The Weather Channel (@weatherchannel) June 1, 2013