What To Do In A Tornado

Imagine the sky turning an ominous green, the wind howling like a freight train, and the unmistakable sound of a tornado siren piercing the air. Tornadoes, violent columns of rotating air, can appear with little warning and leave a path of devastation in their wake. While we can't control the weather, understanding how to react during a tornado can significantly increase your chances of survival and minimize the potential for injury.

Knowing the proper safety measures is crucial for everyone, especially those living in tornado-prone regions. A well-thought-out plan and quick, informed decisions can make all the difference between a close call and a tragedy. It's about protecting yourself, your loved ones, and your community from the destructive power of nature. Delaying action or not understanding the best course of action could be fatal during a tornado.

What are the most important things to know and do when a tornado threatens?

What is the safest place to be during a tornado?

The safest place to be during a tornado is underground, ideally in a storm cellar or basement. If an underground shelter isn't available, an interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building, away from windows, is the next best option.

When a tornado threatens, the primary goal is to find a structure that can withstand the extreme winds and flying debris. Underground shelters offer the best protection because they are shielded from the direct impact of the tornado and the projectiles it carries. Basements, while not as secure as dedicated storm cellars, still provide significant protection by being partially underground and surrounded by the earth. If neither an underground shelter nor a basement is accessible, quickly move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a substantial building. This could be a closet, hallway, or bathroom. The key is to choose a room without windows, as windows are easily shattered by tornado winds, creating dangerous flying glass. Get under a sturdy table or piece of furniture, or use your arms to protect your head and neck. Avoid large rooms with wide-span roofs like auditoriums or gymnasiums, as these are more prone to collapse. Remember that mobile homes or vehicles offer virtually no protection from a tornado and should be abandoned for a sturdier structure if possible.

How do I protect myself if caught outdoors during a tornado?

If caught outdoors during a tornado, the absolute best-case scenario is to find sturdy shelter immediately. If that's impossible, seek the lowest-lying ground possible, such as a ditch or ravine, and lie flat, face-down, covering your head and neck with your arms. Stay as far away as possible from trees, cars, and other potentially dangerous projectiles.

While lying flat in a ditch is not ideal, it's far better than remaining exposed in an open area. Tornadoes carry debris at incredible speeds, and even small objects can become deadly projectiles. The goal is to put as much earth between you and the tornado as possible and protect your vital organs. Avoid seeking shelter under bridges or overpasses; these structures can create wind tunnels, increasing wind speeds and the risk of being struck by debris.

Remember, tornadoes are unpredictable and dangerous. The most important thing is to react quickly and decisively. Don't waste time trying to outrun the tornado in a vehicle if you see debris falling. If you see debris, a tornado is very close, and you need immediate cover. The ditch or ravine may be muddy or uncomfortable, but it offers the best chance of survival when no other shelter is available.

Consider these points:

What are the signs a tornado is approaching?

Recognizing the signs of an approaching tornado is crucial for your safety. Be alert to any of the following: a dark or greenish sky, a large, dark, low-lying cloud, large hail, a loud roar that sounds like a freight train, or a visible funnel cloud or rotating cloud base. Even without a visible funnel, strong, persistent rotation in the cloud base or swirling dust or debris on the ground can indicate a tornado is forming.

It's important to remember that not all tornadoes are easily visible. Some may be obscured by rain or darkness, or form suddenly and without much warning. That's why it's crucial to stay informed and monitor weather conditions, especially during severe weather outbreaks. Pay close attention to weather alerts issued by your local National Weather Service office. A *tornado watch* means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop in the area. A *tornado warning* means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar, and you should take shelter immediately.

Beyond visual cues, pay attention to unusual changes in the wind. A sudden calm after a period of strong winds, or a shift in wind direction, can be a sign of an approaching tornado. Also, listen for unusual noises, such as a persistent roar or rumble that doesn't fade like thunder. Being weather-aware and prepared can significantly increase your chances of staying safe during a tornado.

Should I open windows during a tornado?

No, you should never open windows during a tornado. This is an outdated and dangerous myth. Opening windows will not equalize pressure and prevent the building from exploding, and it can actually increase the risk of injury by allowing wind and debris to enter your shelter.

The idea that opening windows would equalize pressure during a tornado is based on a misunderstanding of tornado dynamics. The pressure drop associated with a tornado is localized and happens incredibly quickly. Opening a window simply doesn't provide enough of a vent to make a difference, and it certainly won’t prevent structural damage. Modern building codes and construction techniques also mean buildings are much less likely to "explode" from pressure differences than older structures might have been. Instead of wasting valuable time trying to open windows, focus on seeking appropriate shelter immediately. Go to a pre-designated safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest level of a sturdy building. Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls. Protect your head and neck with your arms or by using blankets, pillows, or a helmet. The best course of action is to prioritize your safety and seek appropriate shelter, avoiding any actions that could put you at greater risk from flying debris or structural collapse.

What should I do after a tornado passes?

After a tornado passes, the immediate priority is to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Check for injuries, both to yourself and others, and administer first aid if possible. Be aware of potential hazards like downed power lines, damaged structures, and debris, and avoid them. Tune into local news or NOAA Weather Radio for updates and instructions from emergency officials.

Following the initial check for injuries, carefully assess your surroundings. The tornado may have caused significant damage that isn't immediately apparent. Watch out for weakened walls, unstable roofs, and broken glass. If you are in a building that has been damaged, evacuate cautiously and be prepared for further collapse. If you smell gas, evacuate immediately and report it to the gas company or fire department from a safe distance. Similarly, report any downed power lines to the electric company. Do not attempt to move fallen power lines yourself. Document the damage with photos or videos, as this will be helpful when filing insurance claims. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Cooperate fully with emergency responders and follow their instructions. Be prepared for aftershocks, which are not common after tornadoes but can occur, especially if the tornado was associated with a larger severe weather system. Be patient, as emergency services may be overwhelmed in the immediate aftermath. Assist neighbors if you are able, and offer support to those who may be in need. Remember to stay informed and follow official guidance to ensure your continued safety and contribute to the recovery efforts.

How can I prepare my home for a tornado?

Preparing your home for a tornado involves creating a safe room or identifying a safe space, reinforcing vulnerable areas, and assembling an emergency kit to ensure you and your family can weather the storm as safely as possible.

To start, identify the safest place in your home. This is typically an interior room on the lowest level, away from windows, doors, and outside walls. A basement is ideal. If you don't have a basement, an interior closet, bathroom, or hallway can work. If possible, consider building a designated safe room reinforced to withstand tornado-force winds and debris. Reinforce garage doors, as these are often the first points of entry for wind. You can also install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect against flying debris. Equally important is assembling a comprehensive emergency kit. This should include essentials like water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a whistle to signal for help, dust masks, moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation, a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, and a manual can opener for food. Also, include copies of important documents, medications, and any special needs items for family members, including pets. Regularly check and replenish your emergency kit to ensure items are fresh and readily available.

Where can I find a local tornado shelter?

Your best options for finding a local tornado shelter include checking with your city or county emergency management agency, looking for community shelters designated by your local government, or inquiring with local schools, churches, or businesses that may have reinforced safe rooms open to the public during severe weather events.

Many communities maintain a list of public tornado shelters, often published on their official websites or available by calling their emergency services number (usually 311 or 211). These shelters are typically located in sturdy, reinforced buildings like schools, community centers, or government offices designed to withstand high winds and flying debris. It's important to identify the shelters closest to your home, work, and other frequently visited locations *before* a tornado watch is issued, so you can quickly and safely reach them if needed. Keep in mind that not all communities have publicly accessible tornado shelters. In such cases, you should identify the safest location within your own home or workplace, which is usually an interior room on the lowest level, away from windows. If you live in a mobile home, it is NEVER a safe place to be during a tornado. You should always evacuate to a designated community shelter or a sturdy building. Preparation and pre-planning are key to ensuring your safety during a tornado.

Okay, friend, that's the lowdown on tornadoes. Hopefully, you'll never need this info, but better to be prepared, right? Thanks for taking the time to learn. Stay safe out there, and come on back whenever you need a little refresher on weathering the storm (literally or figuratively!). We're always here for you.