Pro: Easier Access in Some Situations – Most people get injured when trying to find safety, such as getting into a storm shelter.Some people have died from drowning this way. Sometimes, the water can come from heavy rains caused by the storm, or a nearby pipe could burst and send water into the shelter. Unfortunately, these shelters are not usually waterproof, so water can seep in. Con: Flooding – Underground storm cellars require ventilation to ensure that you don’t suffocate.Underground storm shelters can avoid most debris because they’re not exposed. Something as small as a stick or a rock can become lethal during a storm. Instead, it’s when the wind picks up and throws heavy or dangerous objects at high speeds. Pro: Less Prone to Wind-Driven Debris Damage – The biggest threat during a tornado or hurricane is not the wind itself.Pros and Cons of an Underground Storm Shelter Let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages of each option. When picking a storm shelter for you and your family, you need to decide between an above-ground tornado shelter or an under-ground unit. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), FEMA 320 guide offers guidelines for a storm shelter company or manufacturer on specifications for each model type’s size, shape, and installation requirements. New construction shelters can exceed FEMA guidelines. For example, if a tornado destroys all or part of your home, you may need to sit tight in the shelter until you can find more long-term lodging until your house gets repaired. That said, the interior can be spacious enough for multiple people and come equipped with supplies for a few days, just in case. Once the storm passes, you can exit the shelter and survey the damage. Typically, storm shelters are not too big because they’re designed for temporary use. However, storm shelters can work well for other situations like hurricanes or windstorms. The primary purpose of a tornado storm shelter is to protect the occupants from extreme weather events. But, the biggest question you have to ask yourself is: underground or above-ground? Let’s dive into this topic and see which option is best for your needs. These shelters can withstand high winds, flying debris from ef5 tornados and protect you and your family from danger. One of the best ways to ride out a tornado or similar extreme weather event is inside a storm shelter or safe room. Tornados and other storm systems can cause massive amounts of damage, and if you’re not prepared, these storms can be deadly. Natural disasters are a part of life in the United States, particularly for those who live in tornado alley like Oklahoma or other states throughout the Midwest.

Underground storm shelters arkansas