Tornadoes??Crossing the Plains end of April

[Mads0279]

Sorry if this question makes me sound like a noob, but i just have a concern here. I am leaving the Rockies of CO in mid-late April of this year on a tour to the east coast. However, I see that these plans of mine put me right smack in Tornado alley during peak season. Have any of you done this before? What preventitive measures can i take to avoid a lifethreatening scenario like this? Is this a fool's errand? Whatever advice you have would be helpful!

[BobbyBear]

The chances of you being in a tornado are slim.  Being in a thunderstorm (heavy rain, lighting, hail, strong winds) is much more likely.  However, tornados form from strong thunderstorms.  Not all thunderstorms produce tornados.  Talk to the locals about the weather forecast for today and tomorrow.  Most people love to talk about the weather.  It is a good way to meet people.  Pay attention to the weather as you ride.  If you do get caught in a thunderstorm seek shelter if at all possible.  If no shelter is available a road culvert or ditch will work.  Lay as flat as possible and cover you head with your arms, keep your helmet on. Stay away from under bridge overpasses.  The overpass creates a funnel effect which strengthens the force of the wind.  Thunderstorms (and tornados) usually form in the late afternoon or early evening and provide lots of warning.  If you notice a thunderstorm forming (dark clouds) it would be best to stop early to avoid a storm.  Better safe in a motel than out on the road.  However, with a little caution, you should not have problems with the weather.