Tornado Safety: A Comprehensive Guide to Staying Safe during Tornadoes

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Tornadoes are powerful and destructive weather phenomena that can occur in many parts of the world, including in our own backyard. Knowing how to stay safe during a tornado is crucial to stay safe and feel less stressed during severe weather events. This comprehensive guide will help you prepare for and protect yourself and your loved ones.

Preparing for a Tornado

Be Informed

  • Know the difference between a tornado watch (conditions are favorable for tornado development) and a tornado warning (a tornado has been spotted or indicated on radar).
  • Stay informed with Instant Weather by downloading our free app, monitoring our latest social media pages, and subscribing to our text message service. We'll keep you up-to-date with the latest weather updates and alerts to ensure your safety during tornado season.

Create a Plan

  • Develop a family emergency plan that includes where to take shelter during a tornado, emergency contact information, and a designated meeting spot after the tornado passes.
  • Practice your plan regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do during a tornado.

Assemble an Emergency Kit

  • Gather essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, medications, and important documents in a waterproof container.
  • Don't forget to include supplies for pets if you have them.

During a Tornado

Seek Shelter

  • Get to a safe location immediately if a tornado warning is issued. The best shelter is a small, windowless, interior room on the lowest level of your home, such as a basement, bathroom, or closet.
  • Cover yourself with a heavy blanket, mattress, or cushions to protect yourself from flying debris.

If You're Caught Outside

  • Find the nearest sturdy shelter such as a building or home, and go inside immediately.
  • If no shelter is available, lie flat in a low-lying area, such as a ditch, and cover your head with your hands to protect yourself from flying debris.
  • Avoid seeking shelter under bridges or overpasses, as they can create a wind tunnel effect and cause more damage.

If You're in a Vehicle

  • Do not attempt to outrun the tornado in your vehicle, as tornadoes can change direction quickly and easily lift vehicles.
  • Park your vehicle, get out, and find shelter in a sturdy building or lie flat in a low-lying area.
  • Avoid seeking shelter under bridges or overpasses, as they can create a wind tunnel effect and cause more damage.

After a Tornado

  • Wait for the all-clear signal from local authorities before leaving your shelter.
  • Watch for hazards such as downed power lines, broken glass, and debris when exiting your shelter.
  • Check on your neighbors and offer assistance if needed, especially to elderly or disabled individuals.
  • Document any damage to your property with photos for insurance purposes.

By following this comprehensive guide to tornado safety, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones during a tornado.

Stay informed, be prepared, and stay safe!