The 1996 blockbuster film “Twister” brought awareness to tornadoes and inspired a generation of researchers and storm chasers. The sequel, “Twisters,” starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell, has opened in theaters, sparking renewed attention to tornado safety. Two teams of researchers have warned about increased tornado vulnerability in the eastern half of the nation due to changes in storm patterns and human activities.
Tornadoes are occurring more frequently in some states and less in others, with extended seasons. The increase in tornadoes hitting homes and buildings is attributed to the growing number of structures. The mid-South region, including parts of Alabama, Arkansas, and Mississippi, has seen the biggest increase in tornado vulnerability.
The study’s authors attribute the rise in tornadoes in the East to changes in wind shear and atmospheric instability. Tornado activity has shifted from the warm season to the cold season, with this year producing the third most tornadoes year-to-date. Insured losses from tornadoes and severe storms have set a record in the past 18 months, totaling $37 billion in losses.
Climate change is a contributing factor to the increasing tornado risks, but the extent of its impacts is still being researched. Communities must develop strategies for resilience, focusing on building better homes and enforcing building codes, especially for vulnerable populations like those in mobile homes or the elderly. Continued research and investment in better building practices are critical in preparing for the changing tornado landscape.
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