In this course, the term missiles refers to debris and other objects picked up by the wind and moved with enough force to damage and even penetrate windows, doors, walls, and other parts of a building. In general, the stronger the wind, the larger and heavier the missiles it can carry and the greater the risk of severe damage. But even small stones, branches, and other lighter missiles can easily break glass doors and windows.

Not all parts of each state are at equal risk from tornadoes. For example, while Texas has the highest number of recorded tornadoes, the state’s least tornado-prone area—along the Gulf Coast—has been hit by fewer tornadoes than northeastern Arkansas. Comparing the numbers of tornadoes recorded in different areas within a state can give you a better understanding of the potential tornado activity in those areas.