Tornados

Tornado Watch vs. Tornado Warning:

Watch – A tornado is possible but hasn’t actually formed or been spotted. Pay attention
to developing weather conditions.
Warning – A tornado has been seen or indicated via radar. Stay alert and take shelter

Before a Tornado:

To prepare for a tornado, like any other emergency, be sure to have an emergency
kit ready. A family communication plan should also be a part of this kit so everyone
knows how to keep in touch with one another.
Listen to newscasts and NOAA Weather Radio to stay up-to-date with current weather
conditions and developments, and prepare to take cover.

During a Tornado:

If you’re in a building:
+ Go to the lowest level of the building – a basement or cellar if possible. Get as far
away from windows as possible and put as many walls between yourself and outside
as possible.
+ Lay under a sturdy table or desk and use your arms and hands to protect your neck
and your head from any falling debris.
+ Keep all windows and doors closed to prevent wind currents.
If you’re outside:
+ Get in a car if possible, put on a seat belt, and duck your head below the windows. Do
not relocate under an overpass. Drive to a safe location if doing so is possible without
being hit by flying debris.
If you’re in a mobile home, trailer, or RV :
+ These types of vehicles offer minimal to no protection from a severe tornado. Exit
the vehicle and seek sturdy indoor shelter.
After a Tornado:
+ Despite many injuries occurring during the tornado itself, about half of tornadorelated
injuries happen during clean up and rescue attempts. Tornados destroy
homes, leaving nails and sharp pieces of wood or concrete exposed. Power, gas, and,
electrical systems are often damaged as well, leaving the possibility of electrocution,
fire, and explosion. If possible, turn of these systems. If someone appears to be
seriously injured, do not move them unless they could be injured further.

General Facts:

+ Hardly visible until debris is pick up in the wind.
+ Often have no warning and build quickly.
+ Join tropical storms as they move onto land.
+ Most common east of the Rocky Mountains in the spring and summer.
+ Most common in the afternoon and evening

Spotting a Tornado:

+ Dark, grey sky
+ Dark, low-lying clouds (potentially rotating)
+ A train-like roar or wind noise
+ Large hail