...not just for sailors For those not believing how quickly the wind can come up at times, check this video out, (and watch the wind reverse direction after the initial burst): http://www.mylefkada.gr/eidhseis/nea/6435-vlyxo.html "It was more than 60knots, more like 100 (with 35 years north sea experience I know the difference between 60 and 100 knots). We had about 30seconds warning and managed to start the engine unlike most people. We were knocked flat at least three times and feel lucky to have survived with minor damage to the boat and only bruises to ourselves. A truly terrifying experience." (link to other forum removed) ...and then check out the damage photos: https://picasaweb.google.com/yachtleisha/VlikhoBay#
Sad to see so much damage. The turtled Cat brings a question to mind. Pure conjecture that it went over due to the wind lifting it between the hulls. Is there a preferred method out there for anchoring in anticipation of that nasty bit of weather?
Multiple anchors set in multiple directions. Or better yet, head up into a sheltered creek or cove where you can tie off to shore as well as setting anchors from multiple directions. But in the case of dealing with a localized tornado your best bet might just be making sure your insurance policy is payed up.