Tornado Response for Heritage Institutions in Georgia

When people think about disasters in Georgia, hurricanes usually come to mind first. Some of the most sudden and destructive events affecting museums and archives statewide are tornadoes, which often occurring with little warning.

For heritage organizations, tornado preparedness isn’t about predicting impact. It’s about planning for fast decisions, immediate safety, and rapid stabilization when damage occurs.

Early spring is an ideal time to review tornado response procedures and ensure staff and volunteers know what to do before, during, and after a storm.

Why Tornado Planning Matters in Georgia

Georgia experiences tornadoes across all regions, with peak activity typically in between March and May. Because tornadoes strike quickly, pre-planning is essential. Tornado-related damage to heritage institutions often includes, partial or full roof loss with water intrusion, broken windows, wind-driven debris infiltration, power outages, HVAC failure, and even structural instability in historic buildings.

After spring tornado events, collections typically face damage from rain entering buildings after a roof or window failure.

Before the Storm: Planning for Immediate Action

Identify Tornado-Specific Risks

Assess your site for:

• Building roof type and condition

• Window locations near collections

• Areas vulnerable to falling trees or debris

• Outdoor furniture and/or signage not secured to ground or weighted

• Damaged or diseased trees/ plants

Historic structures and older storage areas may require extra attention due to construction methods or deferred maintenance.

Sheltering Staff & Visitors is Priority

During a tornado warning, human safety always comes first. To ensure that this is prioritized,

Designate:

• Primary and secondary shelter locations

• Who gives the “shelter now” instruction

• How visitors are directed and accounted for

Make these decisions in advance—not during a warning. These should be put into your institutions emergency response plan, and be drilled on at least once a year.

During the Storm: What Staff and Volunteers Should (and Shouldn’t) Do

Do:

• Move immediately to designated shelter areas

• Stay away from windows and exterior walls

• Remain sheltered until the all-clear is issued

Do Not:

• Attempt last-minute collection movement

• Enter damaged areas before safety is confirmed

• Use elevators during warnings or outages

Clear expectations reduce confusion when time is limited.

After Impact: The First 24 Hours

The period immediately following a tornado is critical for collections.

Confirm Safety

Before any response begins:

• Check for structural damage

• Watch for downed power lines and broken glass

• Restrict access to unstable areas

If safety cannot be confirmed, do not enter the building.

Assess and Document Damage

Once safe:

• Photograph damage before moving materials

• Note water entry points

• Track environmental conditions (temperature and humidity)

  
  

Stabilize, Don’t Salvage

In the first 24 hours, focus on:

• Covering collections with plastic sheeting

• Redirecting water away from storage areas

• Improving air circulation where safe

Full salvage decisions should wait until conditions are stable.

Long Term Salvage

Tornadoes and Water Damage: A Common Pairing

Tornado damage in Georgia is often followed by heavy rain, high humidity, and extended power outages. This creates ideal conditions for mold growth, sometimes within 48 hours. It's important to identify, where fans or dehumidifiers could be deployed, which collections are most vulnerable, and when outside assistance may be needed. National Heritage Responders (NHS) has a hotline for conservation concerns.

Planning for Limited Staff and Volunteers

Many museums and archives operate with small, part-time, or even volunteer staff. These individuals may not be available immediately to respond to a tornado. It is imperative to plan for a staggered response, not instant full staffing, by implementing a clear line of authority and communication. Flexibility in documentation and coordination is also important, remote support may be available for coordination of efforts, or documentation of materials from photos or videos. It's important to review your plan annually, drill on it as often as is feasible, and make changes to the plan as changes happen at your institution.

Preparedness That Reflects Georgia’s Reality

Tornadoes give little warning, but prepared institutions respond with clarity rather than chaos. By planning for shelter, safety, and rapid stabilization, museums and archives can reduce risk to both people and collections—no matter the size of the staff or budget.

Preparedness isn’t about predicting the storm, It’s about being ready to act when it arrives.