Storm Alert Center Chief Forecaster Daniel Wilson and Samantha C Sinclair.
Severe weather does happen in the winter months. December 10th and 11th of 2021 reminds us of that fact.
Chief Forecaster Daniel Wilson was just one of hundreds of others tracking and warning about this before it happened.
“Before this event unfolded, we knew things were not good,” says Wilson, “We knew it was going to be bad, but didn’t know how bad.”
This long track tornado stayed on the ground for nearly three hours. It cut a path of horror for 165.6 miles.
There were multiple tornados on this unforgettable night. But this monster will be known as a generational tornado.
Due to the environment it was in, this tornado had nothing standing in its way. Warnings were being given up to or more than thirty minutes ahead of its arrival.
Having a weather plan in place, and insuring everyone in your home or business knows that plan is important. Do not depend on out door warning sirens. You need to have a NOAA weather radio, with working batteries and the volume up at all times.
Severe weather can strike at anytime in a twenty four hour period, and 365 days of the year.
Chief Forecaster Wilson shares some of the worst weather he has seen in his career have occurred in the winter months.
What should a severe weather plan look like?
First, let’s discuss where to avoid if a tornado is on its way.
A manufactured home is under no circumstances safe in severe weather. If possible, have a planned nearby stable structure to escape to. Maybe this is a neighbor who has a basement, or at least does not live in a mobile home.
Also, be sure to learn the storm shelters nearby. For example, some fire departments have storm shelters. Some public places, such as the Courthouse, open their basements. If you are unsure about your area, contact your local Emergency management.
As stated earlier, a NOAA weather radio is the number one way to get up to date weather watches and warnings. Stay tuned to local media, and pay attention to the weather alerts on your phone.
Giving weather warnings ahead of a severe storm or tornado is not always possible. However, on this tragic night, with no sign of stopping, weather warnings out ahead of this monster was possible and crucial.
Now back to our weather planning. If you do not have a basement in your home or workplace, you need to get to the lowest level. Put yourself, family or coworkers, and pets in the most interior part of the structure as possible.
Protecting your head is important. A helmet is always a good thing to have. Even pulling a mattress off a bed, and placing it over top of you can help.
What is the difference between a watch and warning? Good question.
A lot of people get these confused. A watch means conditions are favorable, or it could happen. The National Weather Service usually issues a watch for an area that looks favorable for severe weather conditions before the arrival. This is out of precaution, and is a good reminder for a refresher on that weather safety plan.
A warning from the National Weather Service means it’s going to be happening soon, or is happening. In some cases, pop up tornadoes could happen before anyone has time to issue a warning.
However, again, on the night of December 10, 2021, warnings were being given up to and over a thirty minute window out ahead of this monster.
Countless lives were impacted. While property damage was high cost, the lives impacted came at an even higher cost. When a warning is issued for your area, take it seriously. Don’t rush outside to try to spot the possible tornado. Likely more than not, it is going to be rain wrapped. Nighttime severe weather brings an even higher danger. Again, have a NOAA weather radio with the volume turned up. Never try to outrun a tornado. You will likely be on the losing end.
What if you are on the highway when a tornado strikes? The ideal plan would be to get to a sturdy structure. However, if that is not an option, avoid over passes. If you must ride out a tornado on the side of the road, lay flat in a ditch. Get away from your vehicle. Cover your head as best you can. Again, a ditch is a last resort, but better than a vehicle.
The long track tornado of December 10 and 11, 2021 will not soon be forgotten. It should serve as a reminder life can change in only seconds. Below are the links of Storm Alert Center’s coverage of this generational weather event.
https://www.facebook.com/100020495184758/videos/1056838441772212
https://www.facebook.com/100020495184758/videos/4554096114707694
https://www.facebook.com/100020495184758/videos/602797491024888
For the latest forecast, and severe weather coverage for the Lake Cumberland area, follow The Storm Alert Center on Facebook.
Our hearts and prayers remain with those hit so hard by this generational tornado.
- One way hope of kindness
- Bus seat, 13 
- My eyes are important. Especially when you only really have vision in one.
- A kid at heart
- October 31, 2025 Friday update spot lights Childhood cancer.
SamanthaCSinclair.com 