15. The Unusual Animal Behavior
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The peculiar behaviour of animals is among the most fascinating natural warning signals before a tornado. Many species seem to be more sensitive to the atmospheric changes that precede strong storms, including tornadoes. Though it is still under active scientific investigation, countless people over the years have seen and documented this phenomena. In the run-up to a tornado, you may see domestic animals being quite disturbed or terrified. Dogs may bark nonstop or try to find cover; cats may hide or show unusual clinging behaviour. Horses and cows, among other farm animals, have been seen gathering closely or finding cover well before a storm strikes. Particularly sensitive to variations in air pressure, birds may show unusual flying patterns or silence and seek cover when they would usually be busy. Clues might come from even insects; you can find an odd lack of flying insects or witness them grouping on the ground or on the lee side of structures. Too can wildlife provide warning signals. Apparently seeking safety, deer and other wild creatures might be observed migrating to open spaces or lower terrain. Some have claimed witnessing typically nocturnal animals, such as opossums, active during the day right before bad storms. Although animal behaviour by itself shouldn't be depended upon as the only indicator of approaching severe weather, when paired with other atmospheric signals it can act as an extra warning sign. < Stay vigilant and check official weather forecasts if you observe several species displaying odd behaviour concurrently, particularly in relation to other warning indicators like darkening sky or rapid wind shifts. Recall that animals' instincts have been refined over millions of years of evolution; occasionally their sensitivity to environmental changes offers early warnings that even our sophisticated technologies would overlook. Always give official weather warnings and your own safety observations top priority, nevertheless, over animal behaviour alone.
Ultimately, knowing these 15 natural warning signals before a tornado can help you greatly increase your capacity to shield yourself and your family members. From the creepy calm and green sky to the 'freight train' sound and odd animal behaviour, nature gives us a variety of signals that terrible storm is on its way. Recall that since the eighth sign, the unique "freight train" sound, usually happens shortly before a tornado strikes and could indeed be the one saving your life. Still, it's important to consider all these symptoms and avoid depending only on one clue. Always keep informed via official weather channels; have an emergency plan in place; and be ready to respond fast should severe weather approach. Combining contemporary technology with knowledge of these natural warning signals can help us to better equip for and handle the great and horrible force of tornadoes.
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