Being storm ready

Tornado Preparedness in West Texas: Staying Safe in Lubbock, Midland, Odessa, and Snyder

West Texas is no stranger to extreme weather, and as spring and early summer roll in, so does the increased risk of tornadoes. Cities like Lubbock, Midland, Odessa, and Snyder are located in areas where powerful storms can form quickly, leaving little time to react. Being prepared can make all the difference when seconds count.
Understanding the Tornado Risk in West TexasWest Texas lies on the southern edge of "Tornado Alley," a region known for its high frequency of tornadoes. While not as tornado-prone as central Oklahoma or north Texas, areas around Lubbock and the Permian Basin (Midland and Odessa) still face annual threats, particularly in the spring and early summer months.
Lubbock, for example, experienced a devastating F5 tornado in 1970 lubbocktornado1970.com/, which serves as a grim reminder of the power of these storms. Smaller tornadoes are more common and still pose serious dangers to people, livestock, and property.
Step 1: Know the Warning Signs
Tornadoes can form quickly and without much notice. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Dark, often greenish skies
• Large, low-lying and rotating cloud bases
• Loud, continuous roar or rumble (often compared to a freight train)
• Hail followed by sudden calm
• Debris falling from the sky, even without visible funnels

Step 2: Stay Informed
In West Texas, staying updated is crucial. Always monitor trusted sources:

• NOAA Weather Radio
• National Weather Service (NWS) Lubbock Office
• Local news stations like KCBD (Lubbock) www.kcbd.com/weather/, NewsWest 9 (Midland/Odessa) www.newswest9.com/weather, and BigCountryHomepage (covers Snyder) www.bigcountryhomepage.com/weather/
• Mobile weather apps with alert notifications

Set up Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone, and ensure that your family members have a way to receive warnings even while asleep.
Step 3: Create a Tornado Safety Plan
Each household in West Texas should have a tornado preparedness plan:

1. Designate a Safe Space
   The safest place is a basement or storm shelter. If you don't have one, choose an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows—closets, bathrooms, or hallways work well. In mobile homes or manufactured housing common in parts of Midland and Snyder, it’s essential to seek sturdier shelter during tornado warnings.
2. Build an Emergency Kit
   Include:
   • Flashlight and batteries
   • Battery-powered weather radio
   • Water and non-perishable food (3-day supply)
   • First-aid kit
   • Extra phone chargers or power banks
   • Personal documents in waterproof containers
   • Medications and basic hygiene items
3. Plan for Pets and Livestock
   In rural areas of the South Plains and Permian Basin, many families have animals. Have a plan to quickly bring pets inside and ensure livestock can access shelter, if possible.
4. Practice Drills
   Conduct tornado drills at least twice a year. Ensure children know what to do and where to go, especially if they're at school or home alone.

Step 4: After the StormOnce the danger passes:

• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Avoid using open flames if there’s a risk of gas leaks.
• Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with disabilities.
• Photograph property damage for insurance purposes.
• Stay tuned to official sources for information about emergency services or recovery efforts.

Community Resources in West Texas
Many communities have resources to help prepare and recover:

• City of Lubbock Emergency Management offers local alerts and storm shelter guidance.
• Midland and Odessa Emergency Management Departments provide regional coordination and updates.
• Scurry County Emergency Services (Snyder) also provides storm warnings and recovery information.

Final Thoughts
​Tornadoes are unpredictable, but preparation isn't. Whether you're in Lubbock, Midland, Odessa, or Snyder, taking the time to plan ahead can save lives. Stay alert, stay informed, and stay safe.