The Rock Island Trail

Katy Trail Weather

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sharron sussman from Julian California on 4/17/2006 2:44:24 PM:

What about the TORNADOES???? Has the trail been damaged? Where? I will be on the trail around May 4-10, going west-to-east. In California we stand in the doorway for earthquakes - where should we stand for a twister???

Any specific or general information much appreciated,

Sharron Sussman

sbikes from Kansas City on 4/17/2006 6:56:29 PM:

Well, for starters, you don't stand for a twister...well, unless you are from Kansas like I am
and then you stand to watch them for as long as you can...but, if you are from California,
the goal is to get as flat as possible, below ground level, if you can and protect your head.
So, that means prone in a ditch, if you can find one, or in a basement. Don't stand under a
tree. http://www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/safety.html is a link to a page on tornado
safety.

And, the other thing to remember is that tornado damage usually is pretty localized.
Damage is only where the tornado is, not like an earthquake. Not saying that it can't
track you down on the trail, but the risks are fairly minimal. So, worry more about the
sunburn and wind and don't forget the copperheads...and have fun! The trail is marvelous
and you will have a great time!

Dan Meservey from Lee's Summit on 4/17/2006 8:41:11 PM:

I haven't been on the trail yet this year, but I doubt that there has been any storm/tornado damage. At the worst, there may be a few branches down on the trail, but the state park folks are good about getting it cleared off quickly. As far as what to do if you're caught out during a tornado, your best bet is to find a low spot (like a ditch) and lie down. BUT ... your chances of seeing a tornado are very low. I've been here 40 years, and have never even seen one in person. Have a great ride!

Anonymous on 4/19/2006 2:52:12 PM:

As far as trail damage, if a tree or trees come down due to a storm the park staff usually gets to them within 24 hours. You can go to www.mostateparks.com and check the trail conditions. As for stormy conditions while you are riding, I would purchase a little weather radio and take it with you. You can put it on stanby and it will alarm you of any watches and warnings in the area. Take a good map so you know what county you are in since the watches and warnings are given by counties. If things get real bad there are towns every ten miles so its easy to find shelter and wait out any storms. The other folks are right, it is very unlikey you be close to any tornadoes, especially since they typically occur in the late afternoon and at night. You should be off the trail by that point enjoying a nice bottle of wine somewhere.

bryan from Springdale, AR on 4/20/2006 3:29:42 PM:

If a tornado is bearing down on you, a door way won't help. In fact, the doorway might even leave, and take you with it! Your friends could call you "Dorothy" after that, I guess.

Seriously, the chances of being caught by a tornado on the trail are very very slim. Watch or listen to the local forecast before starting out. If severe weather is predicted, then take a closer look and see if it is in the area you will be riding, and alter your plans accordingly. Unlike earthquakes, it's difficult for a thunderstorm to sneak up on you. They are very visible in the daytime from a long distance away. If dark clouds are gathering to the west and southwest of you, haul it to the nearest available shelter and wait it out. A small AM-FM radio doesn't weigh much, and would keep you informed. You can even get this info on your cell phone if you have web access. Know where you are and keep yourself informed, especially if you are hearing thunder in the distance, and you'll be fine.

sbikes from Kansas City on 4/20/2006 8:00:00 PM:

But, then again, if you stand in the doorway, you might have a really good view to watch the
tornado coming your way! : )

runkentrun2002 from Denver on 5/6/2006 2:06:11 PM:

Copperheads?

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