[sheikdetailfeather]

I was in Carleton, Michigan in late 60's and a tornado hit Flat Rock, which was named that for a reason. Her father drove home and got us into the basement. We just made it there and I heard a noise I will never forget. To me it sounded like a giant powerful Kirby vacuum sweeper up over head. A low, grinding and growling sound and windows breaking out. I thought we were all going to die. It blew the little window open in the basement and the car in the driveway was at an angle when we went back up. In town, it had destroyed many buildings. In Florida, the tornados are quicker but smaller. We have no basements so I go to the Post Office since it is reinforced and open all night.

[Catspaw]

We just made it there and I heard a noise I will never forget. To me it sounded like a giant powerful Kirby vacuum sweeper up over head. A low, grinding and growling sound and windows breaking out. I thought we were all going to die.

I've been in one tornado--with a very similar experience. The tornado touched down at the crest of the hill and we were about 100 ft. south (on the road). The very old farmhouse we were living in had its windows sucked out on one side, the square nails were pulled out from the boards, the linoleum was sucked up about two feet, it split a huge oak tree in the front yard, missing my car by about >.< much...but it's the sound I'll never forget. Never. That roar....I've been near a couple others, even saw a few form, but that's one experience I never want to repeat. I feel so much sympathy for those going through these tornados.