Tornadoes

Before

Know the Signs

Tornadoes can form quickly, often with little warning. Be alert to:

• A rotating, funnel-shaped cloud
• A loud roar that may sound like a freight train
• An approaching cloud of debris

Stay Informed

• Sign up for local warning systems and alerts like the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio.
• Know the difference between a Tornado Watch (conditions are favorable) and a Tornado Warning (a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar).
• Monitor local TV, radio, and official social media channels for updates.

Prepare Your Home and Family

• Identify a safe place in your home: a basement, storm cellar, or small, interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building—away from windows and outside walls.
• Practice tornado drills with your family so everyone knows where to go.
• Make sure your disaster supply kit includes:
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Battery-powered radio
  • First aid kit and medications
  • Non-perishable food and water
  • Sturdy shoes and essential tools
  • Cash or credit cards
• Include pets in your emergency plans.
• Remove dead or weak tree branches near your home to minimize wind damage.

During

If Indoors

• Go immediately to a safe space.
• Stay away from windows, doors, and exterior walls.
• Cover your head and neck with your arms and put materials such as furniture and blankets around or on top of you.
• Continue listening to weather updates via a battery-operated radio or app.

If Outdoors

• Seek shelter in a building or vehicle if possible.
• If no shelter is available, move to a low, open area. Avoid trees, tall objects, and metal items.
• Stay away from bodies of water like rivers or lakes.
• Crouch low to the ground with your hands on your knees.
• Avoid isolated tall trees, fences, power lines, and metal objects such as golf clubs, bicycles, or equipment.

If in a Vehicle

• Park your car safely out of traffic.
• Stay in the car, seatbelt on, head below window level. Cover your head.
• If you can get to a low area noticeably lower than the roadway, exit the vehicle and lie flat, covering your head.

Important: Avoid taking shelter under bridges or overpasses.

After

Stay Safe

• Keep listening to NOAA Weather Radio or local authorities for emergency information and instructions.
• Avoid downed power lines and report them immediately.

Check for Injuries

• Administer first aid if trained, and call emergency services as needed.
• A person struck by lightning or debris is safe to touch - do not delay assistance.

Communicate Safely

• Use text messages or social media to check in with loved ones.

Driving

• Drive only if necessary.
• Debris and washed-out roads may make driving dangerous.