Staying Safe During Severe Weather
At Osprey Cove, your safety is our top priority. While tornadoes are rare, they can strike with little warning—making it crucial to be informed and prepared. Below, you’ll find helpful tips, emergency contacts, and planning resources to protect yourself, your family, and your property in the event of a tornado.
Understanding Tornadoes
What is a Tornado?
- Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. They can happen anytime and anywhere, bringing intense winds that can exceed 200 mph.
Tornado Risks in Our Area:
- St. Marys, located in Southeast Georgia, is at risk for tornadoes, especially during severe weather seasons.
Watch For Signs Of A Tornado
Recognizing Tornado Indicators
Be alert for the following signs that a tornado may be approaching:
- A rotating funnel-shaped cloud
- An approaching cloud of debris
- A loud roar similar to a freight train
- Sudden changes in wind direction or speed
Safety Steps Before A Tornado
- Stay Informed:
Sign up for your community’s warning system and monitor local weather reports. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio provide critical updates. - Create a Safety Plan:
Identify safe shelter locations in your home- Best Locations for Slab Homes:
- Interior Room: Go to a small, windowless interior room on the lowest level, such as a bathroom, closet, or pantry.
- Hallway: If no interior room is available, use a central hallway away from windows.
- Under Sturdy Furniture: If you cannot find a safe room, get under a heavy piece of furniture (like a table) for additional protection.
- Best Locations for Slab Homes:
- Keep Your Cell Phone Handy:
Always keep your cell phone with you during severe weather. Ensure it is fully charged and don’t forget your portable charger. Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications to stay informed.
During A Tornado
- Seek Shelter Immediately:
Go to your predetermined safe location. Stay away from windows and cover your head and neck with your arms. - If Outdoors or in a Vehicle:
Do not try to outrun a tornado. If you cannot reach a sturdy building, lie flat in a low area, such as a ditch or ravine, and cover your head.
After A Tornado
Stay Informed:
Continue to listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, and local authorities for updates.
Continue to listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, and local authorities for updates.
Be Cautious:
Avoid fallen power lines and damaged buildings. Communicate with family and friends via text or social media, as phone lines may be down.
Avoid fallen power lines and damaged buildings. Communicate with family and friends via text or social media, as phone lines may be down.
Report Emergencies:
If trapped, cover your mouth to avoid breathing dust. Signal for help using a whistle, (often included and recommended in an emergency kit) or by banging on a pipe.
If trapped, cover your mouth to avoid breathing dust. Signal for help using a whistle, (often included and recommended in an emergency kit) or by banging on a pipe.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information on tornado preparedness, please visit the following websites:
- FEMA Tornado Safety: Ready.gov Tornadoes
Comprehensive information on tornado preparedness and safety tips. - National Weather Service (NWS): NWS Jacksonville
Local weather alerts and forecasts for St. Marys.
- Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA): GEMA/HS
State resources and emergency management information.
- Camden County Emergency Management: Camden County EMA
Local alerts and community preparedness resources. Sign-up for CodeRed.
In addition to the information above, you can also download these valuable resources:
The Osprey Cove Owners’ Association provides this guide for reference purposes only. It should not be interpreted as a guarantee of safety in the event of a tornado, hurricane or tropical storm, nor does OCOA assume liability for any loss or damage resulting from such events.