Are Parking Garages Safe in a Tornado

As the frequency and intensity of natural disasters increase, so does our concern for safety. Tornadoes, in particular, are one of the most destructive natural forces that can strike at any moment. They can devastate entire communities and leave behind a trail of destruction in their wake. While we often think about seeking shelter in designated safe zones during a tornado, what happens if you’re caught out in the open or parked in a garage?

Parking garages are a common location for people to seek shelter during severe weather events. However, it begs the question – are parking garages safe in a tornado? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. On one hand, parking garages offer some form of protection against flying debris and strong winds. But on the other hand, they also come with their own set of risks and potential hazards.

In this article, we’ll explore the safety considerations when using parking garages as a shelter during tornadoes. We’ll delve into the design features that make some parking garages safer than others and highlight some key factors to keep in mind to protect yourself from harm’s way. So buckle up (pun intended) and let’s dive into this important topic together!

Understanding the Risks Associated with Parking Garages During Tornadoes

Tornado Characteristics and How They Affect Parking Garages

Tornadoes are violent rotating columns of air that form in thunderstorms. These weather events can be extremely dangerous, causing immense destruction and loss of life. The likelihood of tornadoes varies by region, but they can happen anywhere in the world.

Parking garages are especially risky during tornadoes because they offer little protection from high winds and flying debris. The open design of parking garages makes them vulnerable to damage from powerful winds that can collapse walls or even the entire structure. Additionally, cars parked in garages can become hazardous projectiles that may cause severe injury or death if they are thrown around by the wind.

The Importance of Preparedness Planning for Parking Garage Owners and Users

To minimize the risks associated with parking garages during tornadoes, owners and users must be prepared. Owners should have emergency plans in place that include procedures for evacuating the garage quickly and safely when a tornado is imminent. They should also ensure that their structures meet or exceed building codes and standards for tornado-resistant construction.

Users must be aware of the risks associated with parking garages during tornadoes and take steps to protect themselves. This includes avoiding parking on upper levels during severe weather conditions, staying away from windows, and seeking shelter in designated safe areas within the garage when necessary.

How Safe Are Parking Garages During Tornadoes Compared to Other Structures?

Parking garages are generally less safe than other structures during tornadoes because they lack many of the features that make buildings more resistant to high winds and flying debris. Unlike buildings designed for residential or commercial use, parking garages typically have large openings that allow wind to enter easily, increasing the risk of structural damage.

Additionally, parking garages often lack reinforced concrete or steel frames, which can help to prevent collapse during severe weather events. As a result, parking garages may be more likely to sustain significant damage or even total collapse during tornadoes.

However, some parking garages are designed and constructed with tornado-resistant features that can improve their safety during severe weather. These features may include reinforced walls and roofs, wind-resistant doors and windows, and secure anchor points for cars parked in the garage.

Improving the Safety of Parking Garages During Tornadoes: What Measures Can Be Taken?

Several measures can be taken to improve the safety of parking garages during tornadoes. These include:

Designing and Constructing Tornado-Resistant Structures

Parking garage owners can work with architects and engineers to design structures that are resistant to high winds and flying debris. This may involve incorporating features such as reinforced concrete or steel frames, wind-resistant doors and windows, and impact-resistant materials.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Regular maintenance and inspections can help to identify potential weaknesses in parking garage structures before they become hazards during severe weather events. Owners should inspect their structures regularly for signs of wear or damage, repair any issues promptly, and make necessary upgrades to ensure that their garages remain safe over time.

Emergency Preparedness Planning

Owners should have emergency plans in place that include procedures for evacuating the garage quickly and safely when a tornado is imminent. They should also ensure that all users are aware of these plans and how to follow them in case of an emergency.

Parking Garage Failures During Tornadoes: Examining Past Incidents

Several incidents involving parking garage failures during tornadoes have highlighted the risks associated with these structures during severe weather events. In 2011, a large parking garage at St. John’s Hospital in Joplin, Missouri collapsed during a tornado, killing one person and injuring several others.

The collapse was attributed to the lack of reinforced walls and roof, as well as inadequate anchor points for cars parked in the garage. The incident underscored the importance of designing and constructing parking garages that are resistant to high winds and flying debris.

Governing Guidelines and Regulations for Designing and Constructing Tornado-Resistant Parking Garages

Several guidelines and regulations exist at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure that parking garages are designed and constructed with safety in mind. These include building codes and standards set by organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Code Council (ICC).

Additionally, some states have specific guidelines for designing tornado-resistant structures that may apply to parking garages. For example, Oklahoma requires new construction projects to meet certain wind resistance standards based on their location within the state.

Staying Safe in a Parking Garage During a Tornado: Tips for Individuals

Individuals who find themselves in a parking garage during a tornado should take steps to protect themselves from potential hazards:

Avoid Parking on Upper Levels

Parking on upper levels during severe weather conditions increases your risk of injury or death from flying debris or structural collapse. Whenever possible, park on lower levels or move your car out of the garage entirely before severe weather strikes.

Seek Shelter Away From Windows

If you cannot evacuate the garage safely before a tornado hits, seek shelter away from windows or other areas likely to be impacted by flying debris. If possible, move to an interior stairwell or an area designated as a safe zone by garage management.

Stay Informed About Severe Weather Conditions

Keep up-to-date with local weather forecasts so that you can plan ahead when severe weather is expected. Be aware of any tornado watches or warnings in your area and take appropriate action to protect yourself.

In conclusion, parking garages can provide some level of protection during tornadoes, but it is important to choose a garage with sturdy construction and proper safety features. It is also essential to follow any guidelines or instructions provided by the garage management during severe weather events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Are Parking Garages Safe in a Tornado

Do parking garages survive tornadoes?
In situations where there is limited time to seek safety in a community shelter, people may consider using their garage as a refuge during a hurricane or tornado. However, studies have shown that garages are not suitable for sheltering during severe storms. This was reported on January 10, 2022.

Is a car in a garage safe in a tornado?
The walls of a garage door are usually the most vulnerable part of a building, and if they are damaged, the wind can easily lift and throw a vehicle. It is recommended to avoid even staying in the room next to the garage during a storm.

Where is the safest place to park your car during a tornado?
In the event of extreme winds or flying debris, it is important to park your car in a safe and timely manner, away from traffic. Remain seated inside the car with your seatbelt fastened, and protect your head by lowering it below the windows and covering it with a blanket, coat, or cushion if available.

Is a lower level parking garage safe in a tornado?
A garage located underground can offer great protection from storms as long as no openings are exposed to the outside. It is important to avoid being near any entrances or exits during a tornado, as the strong winds can pull people out of the garage.

Where is the safest spot in a parking garage?
When parking in a garage, try to park near the entrance, exit, or elevator to reduce time spent in darker areas. To remember where you parked, use your phone to drop a location pin or take a photo of a recognizable landmark.

What happens if a tornado picks you up?
Surviving a tornado after being picked up is unlikely, as there are several ways that can lead to death. If a tornado lifts you high and drops you, the fall can be fatal. Additionally, tornados can pick up other objects besides humans, increasing the risk of harm.