BLOGS

Are You Listening to Early Warning Signs of a Tornado

Go ahead and stop and smell the roses, take in the scenery of our beautiful rolling hills here in Edmond. However you put it, we believe it’s important to enjoy nature and pay attention to it. That’s especially important when it comes to listening to our Oklahoma sky because it can be a matter of life or death. We live in an area that’s prone to get tornadoes, so we at McCaleb Homes have learned a thing or two about Mother Nature’s mood swings. One moment it’s sunny and peaceful, and the next, you’re wondering if your patio furniture just relocated to Oz.

We build homes with strength and safety in mind, but when it comes to tornadoes, awareness is just as important as good construction. So let’s have a real talk about how to spot the early warning signs of a tornado—before the sirens start singing and the sky starts spinning.

The Sky Goes Moody and Greenish

Nope, you’re not imagining things. That eerie green hue in the sky isn’t a special effect—it’s one of the classic signs of a severe storm brewing. Meteorologists believe this color has to do with how sunlight filters through moisture-heavy clouds, often signaling hail and very intense activity in the atmosphere. So if the sky suddenly looks like it's trying out for a role in a disaster movie, it’s time to pay attention.

It Gets Weirdly Quiet

You know that scene in every storm movie where everything suddenly gets still? It’s not just for dramatic effect. Tornadoes are often preceded by an eerie silence. The birds stop chirping. The wind goes still. It feels like nature is holding its breath—and you should be holding yours too. It might be time to grab your emergency kit and check the radar.

A Roaring Sound (That’s Not a Train, But Sounds Like One)

If it sounds like a freight train is barreling through your neighborhood, and you don’t live near the tracks, that low, continuous rumble could be a tornado. This isn’t your average thunderclap—it’s deep, rumbling, and doesn’t fade away. Don’t wait for visual confirmation. If you hear it, head for shelter.

Low-Lying Clouds That Swirl Like They're Auditioning for a Dance Competition

Before a tornado fully forms, it often starts as a rotating, low-hanging wall cloud. These ominous formations can look like the sky is swirling in slow motion—and when they start tightening up like a figure skater pulling in for a spin, that’s your cue. Even if a funnel hasn’t dropped yet, rotation in the clouds is a serious warning.

Falling Debris from the Sky (No, Really)

Sometimes, the funnel is hidden behind rain or darkness, and you don’t even see it coming. But if the wind starts tossing twigs, leaves, or random roof shingles your way, a tornado may already be nearby. This is known as a “rain-wrapped tornado,” and it can be one of the most dangerous because it’s hard to see coming. Don't wait. Move to your safe place immediately.

All hail… (Before) the Storm

Sudden, intense hail—especially large chunks—is often a sign that the storm is escalating. It’s not just annoying; it’s the storm flexing its muscles. Tornadoes often follow close behind. Consider large hail your official, slightly aggressive tap on the shoulder.

Don’t Be a Skeptic—Be a Storm Scout

At McCaleb Homes, we believe in building homes that protect, but we also believe in empowering you to protect yourself. Watching the weather is more than a hobby around here—it’s a life skill. So next time you see the sky doing something suspicious, don’t shrug it off. Check the radar, listen to your weather app, and always err on the side of caution.

Because while we love a good thunderstorm soundtrack as much as the next person, we also love knowing our homeowners are safe, alert, and ready to take action when it counts. Stay storm-smart, neighbor. We’re always in your corner—come rain, shine, or spinning skies.

By McCaleb Homes Staff 5-1-2025