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Tornado sheltering: Challenges and solutions including public storm shelters
Craig D Croskery1, Kathleen Sherman-Morris2
1Department of Geosciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1854-261X.
Journal of Emergency Management (Weston, Mass.)
|January 8, 2025
Summary
Public tornado shelters improve safety, especially for vulnerable populations. Most surveyed individuals would use shelters during severe weather, highlighting the need for better accessibility and promotion.
Area of Science:
- Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
- Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management
- Social Science and Human Behavior
Background:
- Tornadoes pose a significant threat across the United States, with limited safe sheltering options for many.
- Public tornado shelters can enhance community safety, particularly for those unable to afford private retrofitting.
- Existing research on public tornado shelter utilization is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate tornado sheltering behaviors in areas with and without public shelters.
- To understand public perception and hypothetical use of tornado shelters.
- To identify factors influencing the use of public tornado shelters.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was administered to approximately 1,450 individuals.
- The survey collected data on current and hypothetical tornado sheltering practices.
- Geographic data on public shelter availability in respondents' communities was considered.
Main Results:
- A majority of respondents in the Deep South and Great Plains live in areas with public shelters.
- Most respondents have not used public shelters but would use them during extreme tornado threats.
- Mobile home residents showed higher actual usage rates of public shelters.
Conclusions:
- Public tornado shelters are perceived as valuable resources, with a high likelihood of use during severe tornado threats.
- Consistent wayfinding, supportive policies (e.g., pet accommodation), and mobile application integration are crucial for promoting shelter use.
- Expanding public shelter availability and accessibility can significantly improve community resilience to tornadoes.
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