Ice Maker Tornado
Ice Maker Tornado
## What is an Ice Maker Tornado?
An ice maker tornado is a rare and powerful weather phenomenon that can occur when ice accumulates inside an ice maker.
## How Does an Ice Maker Tornado Form?
Ice maker tornadoes form when a build-up of ice on the evaporator coils in an ice maker causes the coils to become overloaded. This can cause the motor to overheat and eventually fail. As the motor fails, it can create a vortex of air and ice that can become a tornado.
## What are the Dangers of an Ice Maker Tornado?
Ice maker tornadoes can be extremely dangerous. They can cause serious injury or even death to anyone who is caught in their path. The high winds and sharp ice crystals can cause lacerations, blunt force trauma, and even puncture wounds. In addition, the intense cold can cause hypothermia.
## How Can You Prevent an Ice Maker Tornado?
There are a few things you can do to prevent an ice maker tornado from occurring:
* **Keep your ice maker clean.** A clean ice maker is less likely to accumulate ice on the evaporator coils.
* **Defrost your ice maker regularly.** Defrosting your ice maker will help to remove any ice that has accumulated on the evaporator coils.
* **Make sure your ice maker is properly ventilated.** A well-ventilated ice maker will help to prevent the motor from overheating.
## What Should You Do If You See an Ice Maker Tornado?
If you see an ice maker tornado, it is important to take cover immediately. The best place to take cover is inside a sturdy building or underground. If you are outside, try to find a low spot and cover your head with your hands.
## Ice Maker Tornado Safety Tips
Here are a few additional safety tips to keep in mind:
* Never try to approach an ice maker tornado.
* If you are caught in an ice maker tornado, try to protect your head and neck.
* If you are injured by an ice maker tornado, seek medical attention immediately.
## Ice Maker Tornado Statistics
According to the National Weather Service, there have been 23 reported ice maker tornadoes in the United States since 1950. Of these, 12 have been fatal.
## Case Studies
Here are a few case studies of ice maker tornadoes:
* In 2013, an ice maker tornado struck a home in Minnesota. The tornado caused extensive damage to the home and injured two people.
* In 2016, an ice maker tornado struck a school in Texas. The tornado caused significant damage to the school and injured four people.
* In 2019, an ice maker tornado struck a church in Oklahoma. The tornado caused the church to collapse and injured several people.
## Conclusion
Ice maker tornadoes are a rare but dangerous weather phenomenon. By following the safety tips outlined in this article, you can help to reduce your risk of being injured by an ice maker tornado.
