Question

What to do during tornadoes​

Answer 1

Acting quickly is key to staying safe and minimizing impacts.

Stay Weather-Ready: Continue to listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay updated about tornado watches and warnings.

At Your House: If you are in a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows. Don't forget pets if time allows.

At Your Workplace or School: Follow your tornado drill and proceed to your tornado shelter location quickly and calmly. Stay away from windows and do not go to large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.

Outside: Seek shelter inside a sturdy building immediately if a tornado is approaching. Sheds and storage facilities are not safe. Neither is a mobile home or tent.  If you have time, get to a safe building.

In a vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. The best course of action is to drive to the closest shelter. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ditch or ravine.

Answer 2

During tornadoes, it's important to prioritize your safety and take appropriate actions to protect yourself. Here are some essential steps to follow:

1. Seek shelter immediately: Move to a small, windowless interior room on the lowest level of your home or building. Ideally, it should be a basement or storm cellar. If none are available, choose a small, central room on the lowest floor.

2. Stay away from windows: Avoid windows, glass, and exterior walls. Find cover under a sturdy piece of furniture or use a mattress to shield yourself from flying debris.

3. Protect your head: Put on a helmet or cover your head with a mattress, cushions, or any available form of protection to guard against head injuries.

4. Listen to weather updates: Keep a battery-powered weather radio or a smartphone with you to stay informed about the tornado's progress and any warnings issued by local authorities.

5. Follow local guidelines: If local authorities have issued evacuation orders or advised taking specific actions, follow their instructions promptly and calmly.

6. Stay informed about tornado watches and warnings: A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form, while a tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. Take immediate action when a warning is issued for your area.

7. Have an emergency kit: Prepare an emergency kit in advance with essential supplies, including water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, and a portable phone charger.

8. Stay away from vehicles and mobile homes: Vehicles and mobile homes are not safe during tornadoes. If you are in a mobile home, leave and seek shelter in a more secure structure.

9. Cover yourself if caught outside: If you're caught outside and cannot find shelter, lie flat in a low-lying area such as a ditch or depression and cover your head with your arms or any available protection.

10. Stay informed after the tornado: Even after the tornado has passed, exercise caution. Be aware of potential hazards such as downed power lines, gas leaks, or structural damage. Listen to local authorities and follow their instructions regarding recovery efforts.

Remember, tornadoes are dangerous and can be unpredictable. It's crucial to have a plan in place ahead of time and to stay calm during the event. Stay informed, seek shelter, and prioritize your safety above all else.