Tornadoes and Manufactured Homes – A Deadly Combination
By Sue Quimby, CPCU, AU, CIC, CPIW, DAE, CLP-A – Senior Vice President
Severe wind events are an all too common, and dangerous, occurrence in many areas. Tornadoes can be especially devastating to mobile or manufactured homes and their occupants. From 1996-2023, 815 people were killed in mobile homes during tornadoes. Mobile/manufactured homes represent only 6% of the houses in the United States. However, the National Weather Service estimates that 54% of tornado deaths per year occur in such homes. Helping clients understand how to stay safe during a tornado, and prevent or minimize damage, is another value-added service of the professional insurance agent.
Tornadoes or twisters are violent rotating columns of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground, formed when cold dry air collides with warm humid air. The duration can be from a few seconds to several hours, traveling several miles or dozens. The size of the storm may vary drastically as well. A typical tornado is about 250 feet across and travels a few miles, with speeds less than 110 miles per hour. These storms can happen anywhere, at any time of the year.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) advises that the United States has more tornadoes than any other country, averaging 1,000-1,200 per year. Canada has the second most, averaging 100 annually. This year (2024) is turning out to be highly active in the United States, with 1,325 confirmed by August 9th, resulting in 41 deaths.
Tornado watches are broadcast when conditions are favorable to funnel formation. Tornado warnings are more serious, as they are sent when a tornado has been sighted. Warnings are by nature more localized than watches. A watch means take precautions where a warning means take cover immediately.
When a twister is sighted, it is essential to get to shelter. The National Weather Service warns that there is no way to stay safe inside a mobile home during a tornado. Because of their weak connections to the ground, mobile homes are susceptible to flipping over during a windstorm. Going to a permanent building or structure, preferably on a low floor away from windows, is recommended to avoid injury from flying glass or other objects. Where possible, a storm shelter in the ground below the mobile home is a better alternative to staying inside. In fact, experts advise that it is safer to lie down outside in a low spot away from trees, such as a ditch or culvert, than to remain inside the mobile home. Trying to escape by vehicle is also not recommended. Winds can reach 300 miles per hour, and the paths can be erratic.
Coverage for tornado damage is included under the “wind” peril in most standard personal and commercial lines insurance policies. However, some policies may exclude or place limitations on wind damage. A special wind deductible may also apply. Those in tornado-prone areas should read their policies carefully to avoid the unpleasant surprise of coverage gaps in the event of a loss.
Wind can get under the mobile home, turning it over. Wind over the top of the home may also cause an uplift and tear off the roof. Wind mitigation credits may be available for mobile homes with protective devices such as tie down or anchors. In some cases, these may be required by local ordinance or be an underwriting requirement for the insurance carrier. Tie downs are systems of heavy-duty straps that are intended to keep a mobile home stable during high winds, reducing the possibility of overturn or sliding. Tie downs come in several varieties including “over the top” that go over the siding and roof, but may be concealed just under the siding and roof. The ends of the straps hang out under the home. Frame anchors attach to the frame rails of the mobile home, and are fastened to the ground, often in concrete. Older mobile homes may need both types. Care must be taken to ensure that straps and anchors are properly installed and adequately tightened (www.nachi.org).
Tornadoes are unpredictable and resulting damage can be devastating, especially for mobile homes. Helping clients understand ways to prepare for these events and provide proper insurance coverage is another sign of the true insurance professional.
This article is for educational and discussion purposes only and it is not insurance or legal advice and should not be relied upon when making insurance or legal decisions. Nothing herein shall be construed to constitute a legal or underwriting opinion. Nothing herein shall be construed as offering any political, social, or public policy opinion by the author or MSO. Neither the author nor MSO are responsible for errors in, or the accuracy or currentness of, the article.
