Quick Answer
A sturdily built house may still be destroyed by a tornado depending on the tornado's intensity and the house's design and construction. Even well-built homes are susceptible to damage from EF3 or higher tornadoes. The likelihood of destruction is higher if the house has a weak foundation or design flaws.
Tornado Intensity and Destruction
The Enhanced Fujita scale (EF scale) rates tornadoes from EF0 (light damage) to EF5 (incredible damage). EF3 and EF4 tornadoes can cause significant damage to sturdily built houses, while EF5 tornadoes can obliterate even the strongest structures. A house built with a weak foundation or poor design is more likely to be destroyed by a tornado, regardless of its construction quality.
Design and Construction Factors
A house’s design and construction can greatly influence its ability to withstand a tornado. Key factors include a reinforced roof, secure doors and windows, and a strong foundation. A house with a hip roof, for example, is more resistant to high winds than one with a gable roof. Additionally, houses built with materials like steel, brick, or concrete are more resistant to wind-borne debris and flying objects.
Sheltering in Place
If you find yourself in a situation where you are sheltering in place during a tornado, seek shelter in an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of the house. This room should be away from windows, doors, and exterior walls. If no interior room is available, go to an area under a sturdy table or desk and cover yourself with blankets or a mattress. Stay away from windows and exterior walls, and get under cover as quickly as possible.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.