Some might recall ten years ago when a deadly tornado outbreak hit Alabama. One young family will never forget. That family is the Harrison’s. On April 27, 2011, they survived what NOAA dubbed “… the deadliest day for tornadoes in 75 years.” Since that day, they have shared their inspiring story to help prevent injuries and deaths from deadly extreme winds.
Please join our guest host, weather veteran, and chief meteorologist at ABC 33/40 James Spann along with FLASH Leadership partners and tornado survivors Kevin and Sarabeth Harrison as they recall their experience of survival, parental love, and the importance of a tornado safe room.
Topics:
● When and why build a safe room? Safety from storms when they occur (1:57)
● Was it a normal day in Athens? No, a bad storm was headed their way, be prepared (2:41)
● How did the family get a tornado warning? Watching the weather and radar broadcast (3:01)
● How much time did they have? Rushed into the safe room and closed the door
(3:19)
● What was it like in the safe room? Sound got louder and louder, then suddenly stopped (4:28)
● How long did it take for the tornado to pass through their property? 30 seconds (5:03)
● How did their children react? Followed their lead - stay calm and be prepared (5:43)
● How long did it take to get out of the safe room? Buried for 40 minutes due to debris (6:20)
● What did their property look like after the tornado hit? Everything else was destroyed (8:31)
● Where did they live while their new home was being built? Stayed in an apartment (9:34)
● Why was a certified, tested, and approved safe room built at the new house? FLASH (10:04)
● Lessons Learned: Be weather aware, get warnings, and take safety seriously (13:41)
Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)
Email: info@flash.org
Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)
Links and Resources:
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