Growth and destruction

March is just a day away! We know cold weather will soon give way to warmer, I-only-need-a-light-jacket weather. Though March usually brings us at least one last snowfall, it comes with the knowledge that it will be short-lived; we can endure! We feel as though there is an insurance policy for rejuvenation. Moods are transcending from the gloom of February to the anticipation of nature's rebirth. Sunshine! Warmer weather! Flowers popping up through the soil! Leaves starting to bud! Yes!

Unfortunately, March also marks the beginning of tornado season. Such a contrast between the beauty of the awakening of spring and the total destruction of the forces of a storm. Though a tornado has occurred in every one of the 12 months, The Indiana Department of Homeland Security states that March through June is considered tornado season due to their frequency during these months.

Here are some tornado facts:

• Tornadoes are violent rotating cones of air that can spin as fast as 300 mph, be more than a mile wide, and cover up to around 50 miles during their short path of destruction.
• Weak tornadoes last between 1 and 10 minutes, strong tornadoes can last more than 20 minutes, and violent tornados may exceed an hour in duration!
• Indiana ranks 3rd in the country, averaging 23 tornadoes per year.
• 75-85% come from the south/southwest, while less than 5% come from the east.
• Most occur in April, but the most violent are in June.

And a reminder of these two special terms:
WATCH means that a tornado is possible. A WARNING tells you that a tornado has been spotted or is indicated on radar and you should take cover.

Compile your inventory now. We know people who have been devastated by a tornado - 2 who didn't have an inventory and 1 who did. I'm sure you can guess who had a much easier time filing their insurance claim. And the cost of just 3 clothing items covered their investment in their inventory service!