Tornadoes

Tornadoes are created from powerful thunderstorms, and can devastate a neighborhood in seconds with whirling winds reaching 300 miles per hour. Here you’ll find a “starter list” of tools and open data that can support communities in the event of a tornado. If there are additional free tools or open data that can be shared, please email us at disastertech@ostp.gov.

Featured Data

Database of Tornado, Large Hail, and Damaging Wind Reports Composite track information regarding tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds for the period 1950-2006.
Severe Weather Data Inventory (SWDI) This is an integrated database of severe weather records for the United States.
United States Tornado Touchdown Points This map layer shows tornado touchdown points in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, from 1950 to 2004.
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Tools

twilio

Twilio is open sourcing a Rapid Response Kit for developers to stand up communications solutions during an emergency response, featuring SMS-powered volunteer signup and survivor surveys, flexible push and pull conference calling, and phone tree configuration. Users can start with $500 free credit by visiting Twilio.org to clone or download the Rapid Response Kit.
taskrabbit

TaskRabbit Needs for First Responders is a web portal offering a real-time marketplace to connect local service providers with those that need assistance, without any fees. Those interested in joining the pilot program can email DisasterRelief@TaskRabbit.com.
redcross

The American Red Cross provides different disaster preparedness apps in English and Spanish to deal with first aid emergencies, weather emergencies, and natural disasters. Users can download the apps for free at http://www.redcross.org/mobileapps.
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Get Involved

In addition to the many ways to Join the Movement and Get Involved, consider sharing your ideas and Challenge Statements where innovations in technology can be applied to help in the case of a tornado. Email suggestions to disastertech@ostp.gov.