Tornadoes in Upstate New York?

Tornadoes and flash floods are likely to happen in Upstate NY, according to the latest forecast. 

Previously, residents in Mohawk Valley were warned about potential power outages and wind damage in the event of a tornado. They were advised to be prepared for these risks. The warning specifically mentioned the importance of being aware of the possibility of rope-like funnels forming in their area. 

After reading this article, we were notified about a tornado that struck Constableville, located in Lewis County. This tornado hit winds up to 60 MPH, cutting a 100-square-yard path and destroying a cornfield in the area. People often refer to this type as a small rope tornado.

According to the Storm Prediction Center commenting on Constableville, “Tornadoes often assume a ropy, sinuous shape in their final minutes, but can remain narrow like this during their entire life cycles. Although ‘rope’ tornadoes may look weaker than much larger ones, some get more intense as they narrow and tighten (the ice skater effect). With tornadoes, size does not necessarily indicate strength.”

Tornadoes are not usually associated with the CNY region, as they are more common in the mid-west. However, after a tornado hit the Mohawk Valley, we realized that they could happen anywhere. With this becoming a situation that could potentially happen again, we wanted to gather more information to be better prepared, so we turned to the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) for additional guidance. 

What Is A Tornado?

A tornado is a thin, fiercely rotating column of air that forms at the base of a thunderstorm and reaches the ground. It is often difficult to see unless it creates a condensation funnel composed of water droplets, dust, and debris. A funnel must reach the ground to be considered a tornado. If the funnel only occurs above the ground and never touches it, meteorologists consider it a funnel cloud.

Believe it or not, tornadoes are the most violent atmospheric storms. They can cause furious destruction and reach speeds of up to 300 mph. Tornadoes can cause a lot of damage. They destroy homes and buildings, throw vehicles and ATVs far away, and knock down trees and telephone poles.  

Approximately 1,200 tornadoes strike the U.S. each year. The media often leads us to believe that these natural disasters only occur in the Midwest. While that area of the country is well-known for dangerous tornadoes, as previously mentioned, they can happen anywhere.

Storm teams have observed a pattern in these storms, typically happening between 4 pm and 9 pm. However, it’s important to note that these storms can still occur at any time and in any part of the country, whether they’re common or not in that area. 

Deadly tornadoes start off as rotating thunderstorms. These storms can become tornadoes if there is a well-defined radar circulation known as a mesocyclone. This information comes from research conducted by the NSSL team. These supercells can produce hail, unusual and dangerous lightning, and flash floods, even if they don’t turn into tornadoes.  t

While tornadoes not deemed deadly or harmful can also arise from thunderstorms, they may lack the supercells responsible for generating high gusts of wind or robust funnels.

Current theories state that a tornado can form when a mesocyclone is already happening. The temperature change along the edge of the downdraft air is what triggers this formation. As they don’t always look like a typical funnel, some have a swirling, smoky appearance instead of a rope-like shape.

Additionally, some may consist of small vortices of individual tornadoes that rotate around one common funnel. We may also witness or hear invisible tornadoes that cause dust or debris to blow through the area. If you happen to be outside while debris is being thrown, take shelter immediately. The wind damage can harm you if you are outside during the storm. 

Am I Covered for Tornadoes on My Insurance?

The occurrence of a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, tornado, or even just a thunderstorm, can spark the question, “What does my insurance cover should wind damage affect my property?” Most insurance policies will cover damage to your personal property caused by wind damage under your homeowner’s insurance or commercial property insurance. 

Insurance policies vary in coverage and costs. Make sure you understand what you are eligible for before choosing a policy. If you happen to live within an area that is more likely to experience tornadoes and high winds, choosing a policy that will cover those damages will be the best homeowner’s insurance plan for you to purchase. 

If you’re unaware of what your insurance plan consists of and protects, contact our team today to get some answers. You don’t even have to be a client with us; we’re happy to help everyone stay safe! We’re happy to review your homeowner’s insurance, along with other plans you have that could potentially protect you from wind damage or tornadoes. 

With inconsistent weather patterns and climate change, it’s never been more important to understand the types of natural disasters that can occur. We give our thanks to all of the metiorologists who study it and warn us of the dangers the oncoming storms can cause. We appreciate your dedication and work!

Until next time,
Your SZW Team

Scalzo, Zogby & Wittig, Inc. is your New Hartford area independent insurance agent. Call us for a quote on insurance for your home, car, business, or life at 315.792.0000. Or request a quote here.