10 Things Kansas Newcomers Should Know About Tornado Season

Have you moved to Kansas recently, or are thinking about moving here soon? Tornadoes are definitely frightening, but we don't think anyone should panic about tornado season. For the most part, you'll find that tornadoes are amazing and dangerous weather events that you'll eventually get used to. Here's a few things to note when tornado season really hits, just to give you a heads up.

1. Tornado season is generally April through June, but you'd be surprised how often they touch down outside of those months.

We've had them in March, in January, and all through the fall.

2. Most likely, you'll go years (or your lifetime) without seeing one in person.

Even if it's nearby, it might be too rainy.

3. Sirens are tested every week in most places. Don't panic.

Is it exactly noon? there's probably not a tornado, and it's probably just a test.

4. Hail is no joke, so protect yourself if you decide to start chasing.

If you're going to drive, don't drive in hail unless you've got full coverage on that windshield. Kansas hail can get crazy!

5. When you see "Tornado Watch" on the news,

Make sure it's for your county. If it IS for your county, then don't panic. Tornado watches rarely escalate.

6. Tornado Warnings

They don't mean "panic", but you should have a plan ready just in case one actually comes nearby and it's not on the other side of the county. Also, you'll usually find thin tornadoes are much more common than the wider versions.

7. This isn't a tornado.

This is a dirt devil, dust devil, sandspout, or sand devil. They aren't tornadoes, but they can definitely (in some cases) flip your car if you think it's smart to drive through one.

8. Many of us will want to chase it.

Beware the Kansans that don't actually know how to do it safely.

9. For some reason, tornadoes don't usually touch towns.

Usually. However, it's not going to hurt to be safe.

10. For the most part, tornadoes don't actually affect a good amount of Kansans.

Do you have any other tips for tornado season? Share them in the comments below!

If you'd like to get outside this spring and do something other than tempting tornadoes and bad weather, make sure you check out these easy spring hikes with amazing views.