Tornado
Prepare for a Tornado
o Know the difference between a Tornado Watch, indicating conditions are favorable for tornadoes, and a Tornado Warning, indicating an actual tornado has been spotted or is radar-indicated.
o Know the tornado risk for your area. The Southeast U.S. has a great risk for tornadoes, especially night-time tornadoes.
o Know the signs of a tornado: rotating funnel-shaped cloud; approaching cloud of debris; loud roar, similar to a freight train.
o Pay attention to weather reports.
o Identify and practice going to a safe shelter or a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level of your home or sturdy building.
During a Tornado
o Immediately go to your pre-identified safe location.
o Put additional shielding with you such as pillows, furniture or blankets if there is time.
o Cover your head and neck with your arms.
o Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle.
o If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket if possible.
After a Tornado
o Monitor local news and weather broadcasts for updated information.
o If you are trapped, cover your mouth with a cloth or mask to avoid breathing dust. Try to send a text, bang on a pipe or wall, or use a whistle instead of shouting.
o Stay clear of fallen power lines and broken utility poles.
o Do not enter damaged buildings until you are told they are safe.
o Save your phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often busy or down after a disaster.
o Use text or social media to communicate with family and friends.
o Be careful during clean-up. Wear thick-soled shoes. Long pants, and work gloves.