Tornado Shelters in Tornado Alley: Practical Solutions and Why Shipping Containers Aren't the Answer

'Why don't people in Tornado Alley get a shipping container and partially bury it as a shelter for each neighborhood? Each could stock up food and water and have a composting toilet and rescue tools. Elevated for neighborhood hurricane shelters.' This idea, though intriguing, has more pitfalls than practical benefits. In this article, we explore why shipping containers aren't the best solution, and discuss more practical alternatives available today.

The Challenges in Implementing Tornado Shelters

There are numerous complex problems when it comes to providing safe shelters for everyone in Tornado Alley. While having a tornado shelter is better than none, not enough people have them in place. The primary challenges include:

1. Water Table and Ground Conditions

For some areas, the water table or ground conditions make partially burying a container an impractical solution. If the water table is too high or the ground is too difficult to excavate, a shipping container may not be viable. Additionally, the container could flood and become a hostile environment, leading to additional dangers like snakes.

2. Cost and Financial Considerations

The financial cost of providing shelter for everyone in Tornado Alley is significant. Most proposed solutions come with a price tag that even exceeds millions of dollars, and the question of who will pay for it remains a critical concern.

3. Limited Availability and Suitability

Some companies do manufacture above-ground tornado shelters, but they are not cheap and may not fit into every home. Moreover, certain types of homes, such as manufactured homes and mobile homes, are not suitable due to size constraints. These shelters, while effective in a house, are less practical in places where they cannot easily be installed.

4. Existing Tornado Shelters

Some neighborhoods and cities already have designated tornado shelters. However, these solutions come with their own set of challenges, such as traffic issues, how many people they can accommodate, and the inclusion of pets. Additionally, the inherent issues with shipping containers remain, as they are not built to withstand the forces of a tornado or hurricane.

Practical Solutions for Tornado Shelters

Given the challenges, it's essential to consider more practical and certified solutions:

1. Storm Shelter Manufacturers and Certifications

When it comes to tornado shelters, contact a manufacturer who provides certified storm shelters. These shelters are built and installed to recognized safety codes, ensuring they keep you safe during a disaster. Proper materials like steel and concrete, reinforced with rebar, provide the necessary strength and durability.

2. Above-Ground Solutions

For those who prefer an above-ground shelter, there are options available. While these may still be expensive, they are more suitable for various home types, including manufactured homes and mobile homes. Additionally, they are more readily accessible and maintain safety standards.

3. Localized Community Shelters

Another practical solution is to leverage existing community shelters. While they may not be ideal in every scenario, they provide a safe and accessible option for residents. Local emergency management can guide the development and maintenance of these shelters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why is a shipping container not a good option for a tornado shelter?

A partially buried shipping container could become a flying object or be mashed flat during a tornado. Additionally, it may flood, leading to even more hazards. Shipping containers are not designed to handle the abuse from nature, making them less effective than certified storm shelters.

Q2: Can I just go into a mobile home for shelter during a tornado?

While a mobile home may offer some protection, it is still not ideal. Mobile homes can be dangerous during a tornado due to their structure and ease of being lifted. For the best protection, consider certified storm shelters or mobile home-specific tornado shelters.

Q3: What should I do if I live in a community without a designated tornado shelter?

Reach out to local emergency management or community leaders to suggest the development of a community shelter. Improved communication and planning can lead to safer outcomes during a disaster.

Conclusion

While the idea of using a shipping container for a tornado shelter is intriguing, the practical challenges and inherent risks make it a poor choice. Instead, consider certified storm shelters, above-ground solutions, and community-based emergency shelters. By working together, we can make Tornado Alley a safer place for everyone.