With the surplus on cable television of severe weather and its chasers, tornadoes have assumed an almost celebrity-like status. It would not surprise me to learn that they will soon be given names, though the large numbers of tornadoes would deem that effort problematic. In 2011 there were 1,897 funnels reported in the U.S., with 550 fatalities. Tornadoes are dangerous and unpredictable, and though we joke incessantly (here in Kansas) that sirens sound in time for us to grab our cameras and run outside, these storms are not to be taken lightly. April and May are prime months for these monsters, so be on your toes and take shelter sooner than later.
