Here are some more homes in Hallam that slid off of their foundation, exposing the
basement corners.

The advice a long time ago was to get into the southwest corner.  However, we now know
that a house can be lifted or slide off of its foundation exposing any of the four corners and
putting those seeking shelter there at risk of injury or death from flying debris.

So where should you be?  Center of the lowest floor (basement) underneath something
sturdy like a table or with your head covered by a mattress, pillows, etc. The storage
area underneath the basement stairs would be another alternative if available.
AND STAY AWAY FROM THE CORNERS AND WALLS.

All Images © Ken Dewey, Applied Climate Sciences, School of Natural Resources, UNL
Notice that the front door is now well to the left of the front steps.

all photos ©K. Dewey, High Plains Regional Climate Center.
Looking closer reveals that the house has slid off of the foundation, exposing the
basement corners and walls to flying debris.

All Images © Ken Dewey, Applied Climate Sciences, School of Natural Resources, UNL
This house has slid off of its foundation (note the stranded front porch) and
debris drifted into the open basement.

All Images © Ken Dewey, Applied Climate Sciences, School of Natural Resources, UNL
This house slid off of its foundation (toward the left) and cinder
blocks and other debris fell into the exposed basement corner.

All Images © Ken Dewey, Applied Climate Sciences, School of Natural Resources, UNL
This house moved to the right off of its foundation.  Note the air conditioner units
ready to fall into the open basement.
 

Return to: The May 22, 2004 Storm Report