What to Do When You Anticipate a Tornado
A tornado is a violent windstorm characterized by a rotating, funnel-shaped column of air that extends to the ground. Tornadoes grow out of extreme thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes. Tornadoes vary greatly in shape and size, but on average, a tornado is 500 feet across and stays on the ground for five miles. The United States has a higher occurrence of tornadoes than any other country in the world—the states at the highest risk are Texas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Iowa, Alabama, Georgia, Kansas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Illinois, Indiana, and Nebraska.
What to Do When You Anticipate a Tornado
Tornadoes are typically preceded by the following danger signs:
- A dark, greenish sky
- Large hail
- A large, low-lying cloud, especially if a funnel is present
- A loud roar
Also, learn the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning:
- Tornado watch: Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert, watch the sky, and listen to weather updates.
- Tornado warning: A tornado has been sighted or has popped up on a weather radar. Take shelter immediately. If you’re in a vehicle, trailer, or mobile home, proceed to the nearest shelter.
Pick a Safe Room in Your House
A safe room is the room in your house that will shelter you from violent tornado winds. All family members should know which room has been designated the safe room. If you live in a tornado-prone area, consider building a storm cellar below ground. A safe room should be:
- On the lowest building level (ideally, a basement or storm cellar)
- Away from corners and windows
- Toward the interior of your house, away from exterior walls—especially if you don’t have a basement
What to Do During a Tornado
If you’re inside or close to home when a tornado approaches:
- Go to your home’s designated safe room.
- Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
- Don’t open windows.
- Get under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a table.
If you’re in a vehicle or trailer when a tornado approaches:
- Exit immediately. Trailers are often swept up by a tornado’s violent winds, even when they’re tied down.
- Proceed to the nearest shelter area.
If you’re stuck outside when a tornado approaches:
- Go to the lowest, flattest location, such as a ditch in a field. Then lie down.
- Don’t run—tornados are faster than you are. Locate a place of shelter and stay there.
- Be alert to flying debris or flooding.
- Don’t seek shelter under overpasses or bridges. A flat, low area offers the best protection.
