Severe weather can change quickly, especially during tornado season. A calm plan made ahead of time can make all the difference when warnings are issued and minutes matter.
If a Tornado or Severe Weather Warning Is Issued
When a warning is announced, take it seriously and act right away. Listen to local weather reports, emergency officials, NOAA Weather Radio, or trusted alert systems for the latest instructions.
Move to your safest shelter area immediately. Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls. If you are at home, choose a basement, storm shelter, safe room, or a small interior room on the lowest level of the house.
Cover your head and neck with your arms, a blanket, pillow, mattress, or anything sturdy nearby. Flying debris is one of the greatest dangers during a tornado.
If your home is not safe, go to a public shelter before the storm arrives. Do not wait until the warning is already in your area.
Before a Tornado
The best time to prepare is before the sky turns dark. Know your local tornado risk and understand the warning signs. A tornado may appear as a rotating funnel-shaped cloud, a cloud of debris near the ground, or it may sound like a loud train.
Sign up for local weather alerts. Learn the sound of community sirens if your area uses them. Keep a NOAA Weather Radio or reliable weather app available, especially at night.
Choose your safe place ahead of time and make sure everyone in your household knows where to go. Include your pets in your emergency plan and keep supplies ready for them, too.
It is also wise to keep emergency items on hand, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, cleaning supplies, and sturdy shoes.
During a Tornado
Go to your safe place immediately. Do not stand at windows or try to watch the storm. Protect your head and neck and get as low as possible. If you are in a vehicle, there is no truly safe option, only less dangerous choices. If the tornado is far away and traffic is light, you may be able to drive away from its path at a right angle. If strong winds or debris are already near you, pull over safely, keep your seat belt on, lower your head below the windows, and cover yourself if possible. Never shelter under a bridge or overpass.
After a Tornado
Continue listening for updates. More storms may follow, and emergency officials may issue important instructions. Use text messages or social media to check in with loved ones so phone lines remain open for emergencies. Stay away from downed power lines, damaged buildings, broken gas lines, and debris. Wear thick-soled shoes, long pants, gloves, and a mask if cleaning up dust, mold, or storm debris.
After the storm passes, move carefully, help your neighbors when it is safe, and remember:
preparation is not fear — it is wisdom.