Tornado Myths Debunked Share This Story It’s tornado season and
this year has been unusually active—more than 300 have touched
down so far, with the latest in Joplin, Mo., this week.
Tornadoes can strike with little warning and transform a
landscape within a matter of minutes. And while their damage can
be deadly, so can the confusing myths about tornadoes that
continue to put people at risk. Here are five commonly held
misperceptions about twister safety. Myth #1: Opening windows to
equalize air pressure will help minimize damage. Do not waste
precious time trying to open windows if a tornado is on its way.
Doing so may only let in violent winds and flying debris. Seek
shelter immediately. Myth #2: The southwest corner of a basement
is the safest place to seek shelter. This used to be the
prevailing belief because many tornadoes travel from southwest
to northeast. In reality, the soundness and design of your
building determines the safest area. However, experts now agree
that the best place to go during a to