Oklahoma and Its Tornadoes: Why You Need Protection Now
The United States experiences more tornadoes than any other country in the world. On average, over 1,200 tornadoes touch down across the nation every single year. Some of these violent storms reach staggering wind speeds of up to 300 mph. For those living in the heart of “Tornado Alley,” these aren’t just statistics—they are a seasonal reality.
If you live in Oklahoma, you are already aware that the annual tornado season is right around the corner. While peak activity typically occurs from April to May, Oklahoma has proven that destructive storms can strike during any month of the year. Understanding the risks and the state’s history with these storms is vital for every homeowner.
Oklahoma: A Leader in Tornado Statistics
When comparing Oklahoma to other states, the data is sobering. The geographic location of the state makes it a prime meeting ground for cold, dry air from the Rockies and warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico. This collision creates the perfect recipe for supercell thunderstorms and tornadoes.
National Rankings for Oklahoma
Oklahoma consistently ranks near the top of every category regarding tornadic activity and its aftermath:
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2nd for Frequency of Tornadoes: Oklahoma is second only to Texas in the total number of tornadoes that touch down annually.
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7th for Number of Deaths: High-intensity storms frequently strike populated areas, leading to significant loss of life.
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5th for Cost of Damages: The sheer power of Oklahoma storms results in billions of dollars in property and infrastructure loss.
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9th for Injuries: Thousands of Oklahomans have been injured by flying debris and structural collapses over the last several decades.
Oklahoma is where the most frequent tornadoes strike and cause extensive destruction. From the infamous Moore tornadoes to the wide-reaching storms in rural counties, the state faces a level of peril that demands professional-grade protection.
The Power of 300 MPH Winds
The Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale is used to rate the intensity of a tornado based on the damage it causes. While an EF-0 or EF-1 might remove shingles or break tree limbs, the upper end of the scale—EF-4 and EF-5 tornadoes—can reach wind speeds of 200 to 300 mph.
At these speeds, standard residential construction offers very little protection.
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Structural Failure: Homes are often wiped clean off their foundations.
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Missile Effect: Everyday objects like 2×4 boards, stones, and even vehicles become airborne projectiles that can pierce through brick walls.
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Pressure Changes: The rapid drop in atmospheric pressure can cause windows and doors to fail instantly, leading to total roof lift-off.
Because of this intense power, “getting to an interior room” is often not enough. A certified storm shelter or safe room is the only way to ensure your family survives a direct hit from a major Oklahoma tornado.
The Best Time to Order is Right Now
Many homeowners wait until the first sirens of April to think about storm protection. However, the best time to order a tornado safe room is right now, before the peak of the season begins.
Avoid the Seasonal Rush
During the months of April and May, demand for storm shelters skyrockets. This often leads to:
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Longer Lead Times: Installation schedules fill up fast, sometimes pushing your install date to after the season has ended.
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Product Shortages: High demand can strain the supply of high-grade steel and reinforced concrete.
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Stress: Making a major safety decision under the immediate threat of a storm can lead to rushed choices.
By ordering now, you ensure your shelter is installed and ready before the first dark clouds of spring appear on the horizon.
What Makes a “Safe Room” Truly Safe?
Not all shelters are created equal. A true safe room is a hardened structure specifically designed to meet Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) criteria and provide “near-total protection” in extreme weather events.
Engineering and Testing
At Oklahoma Shelters, our safe rooms are engineered to withstand the most extreme forces.
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Impact Resistance: Our doors and walls are tested to ensure they can stop a 15-pound 2×4 board traveling at 100 mph.
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Wind Loading: The structures are designed to remain anchored even when subjected to 250+ mph wind loads.
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Ventilation: Advanced ventilation systems ensure a constant supply of fresh air while preventing debris from entering the unit.
Protecting Your Family’s Future
Investing in a storm shelter is about more than just surviving a single afternoon; it is about the long-term peace of mind for your family. When you know you have a professional-grade refuge just steps away, the anxiety of “Tornado Alley” living begins to fade.
Accessibility for Everyone
Modern safe rooms are designed with accessibility in mind.
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Above-Ground Steel Shelters: Ideal for those with mobility issues, wheelchairs, or elderly family members.
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Underground Garage Shelters: Perfect for saving space while providing the ultimate protection of the earth.
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Concrete Bunkers: Large-capacity options for big families or businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions from Oklahoma Shelters
Why is Oklahoma so prone to tornadoes?
Oklahoma is located in the heart of “Tornado Alley,” where diverse air masses collide. This creates highly unstable atmospheric conditions ideal for the formation of powerful supercell thunderstorms.
Is an above-ground safe room as safe as an underground shelter?
Yes. When engineered and tested to FEMA standards, an above-ground safe room provides the same level of life-safety protection as an underground shelter. They are specifically tested to withstand EF-5 wind speeds and debris.
How long does it take to install a safe room?
Most professional installations can be completed in a single day. However, the wait time to get on the schedule increases as the spring season approaches.
Does a safe room increase home value?
In Oklahoma, a certified storm shelter is a highly desirable feature for home buyers. It often increases the resale value and marketability of a property.
Visit Oklahoma Shelters Today
Looking for the best protection for you and your family? Do not leave your safety to chance this year. Oklahoma’s history proves that the wind is a force to be reckoned with, but you can be prepared.
At Oklahoma Shelters, we are dedicated to helping our neighbors stay safe. We offer a variety of tested, proven, and certified shelter options to fit any home and any budget.
