Tornadoes Top Americans’ Fears in New Survey on Natural Disasters

A recent survey reveals that tornadoes are the natural disaster that Americans fear most. Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Master Lock, the survey included 2,500 adults across the United States. Findings indicate that 46% of respondents consider tornadoes to be more terrifying than other natural disasters, including tsunamis (43%), earthquakes (35%), and hurricanes (33%).

Regional differences in preparedness emerged from the survey. For instance, residents in the Northeast feel relatively secure when it comes to handling heatwaves or droughts, with 68% reporting confidence in their preparedness. However, only 42% expressed the same confidence regarding earthquakes, and an even lower 38% felt prepared for tornadoes. In contrast, a notable 62% of Midwesterners are unfazed by tornado warnings, yet their confidence diminishes when faced with the threats of wildfires (33%) or mudslides (27%).

Despite the increasing frequency of flash flooding across the country, only 43% of those surveyed felt adequately prepared for this type of event.

Personal Experiences Shape Perceptions of Disaster Preparedness

The survey explored what it means to be a “disaster veteran,” defined as someone who is exceptionally prepared for emergencies. While 46% of respondents identified with this concept, only 14% consider themselves true disaster veterans, with 19% of that group residing in the Southeast. Many participants reported having experienced multiple natural disasters, averaging four significant events in their lifetimes.

One respondent from Florida shared their experience with hurricanes, stating, “We are always prepared in the season with a stock of extra food and emergency needs.” Conversely, another individual recounted their regret for not evacuating during Super Storm Sandy in New Jersey, indicating that even those with experience can underestimate the severity of a disaster.

Respondents identified several aspects of natural disasters for which they felt unprepared. The most common challenges included extended power outages (47%), witnessing destruction (39%), and the lengthy recovery process (36%). These factors overshadowed concerns about quickly securing important items (25%) or the financial burdens of rebuilding (19%).

Growing Awareness and Challenges of Natural Disasters

The survey also highlighted a growing awareness of severe weather patterns. Approximately half of respondents (51%) noted an increase in the frequency of severe weather events, while 37% observed a rise in their intensity. Notably, four in five individuals (80%) reported greater awareness of natural disasters compared to ten years ago. Despite this heightened awareness, many feel less equipped to handle such situations, with 61% agreeing that it has become increasingly difficult to prepare for natural disasters.

According to JP Benjamins, Senior Director of Category Management at Master Lock, “31% of those who’ve lived through a natural disaster have lost important items, documents, or both during severe weather.” He emphasized the importance of proactive preparation, which includes regularly reviewing and updating preparedness plans.

When faced with impending severe weather, 21% of respondents reported that they gather their family and pets to evacuate. Others (14%) seek a “safe” area, while only 11% prioritize grabbing important items. Approximately half of respondents (46%) demonstrated an understanding of the difference between a severe weather “watch” and a “warning.”

Despite the awareness, 30% of those surveyed do not have any preparedness plans in place. Only 28% have made specific plans for tornadoes, and fewer have prepared for heatwaves (22%), hurricanes (21%), or flash floods (19%). Alarmingly, only 17% keep their important documents and valuables in fireproof or waterproof safes.

As climate patterns continue to shift, Benjamins suggests investing in certified fireproof or waterproof safes to protect valuables. Such measures can significantly enhance preparedness in an unpredictable weather environment.

The survey, conducted from July 17 to July 21, 2025, used a non-probability sampling method, with respondents evenly distributed across U.S. regions. Results reflect a growing urgency for individuals to take actionable steps in disaster preparedness.