Tornado exercise tests readiness

U.S. Air Force photo: Senior Airman Alexxis Pons Abascal

A medical first responder simulates emergency extraction of an infant dummy from a vehicle during a base tornado exercise March 25 at Cannon Air Force Base. While the events and scenarios of the day were staged for base personnel, the simulations provided realistic training for members of the wing to better prepare for an actual natural disaster.

A strong low-pressure system has begun forming in the region and could potentially move through eastern New Mexico. This system has strong jet stream winds associated with it and is currently situated just west of Cannon Air Force Base. With the strong jet stream overhead and plenty of low-level moisture present, these ingredients could combine to form strong thunderstorms. All personnel should prepare for the issuing of a Tornado Watch.

This was just one of the exercise warning messages sent out by the 27th Special Operations Wing as part of a base-wide tornado exercise March 25.

While the events and scenarios of the day were staged for base personnel, the simulations provided realistic training for members of the wing to better prepare for an actual natural disaster.

Air Commandos and emergency first-responders had their skills and knowledge put to the test under the watchful eye of the Inspector General team who stood by evaluating procedures and protocol.

U.S. Air Force photo: Senior Airman Alexxis Pons Abascal

A firefighter with the 27th Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron utilizes the Jaws of Life to remove a car door during the tornado exercise.

Wing leadership will provide squadrons with feedback on findings and advise on areas that could use improvement for future exercises.