How to Stay Safe During a Tornado
Each year, about 1,200 tornadoes strike the United States , destroying everything in their path. They can form almost anywhere and at any time of the year, bringing with them winds of 300 miles per hour and funnels more than a mile wide. This is what you need to know to survive one of Mother Nature’s most brutal offspring.
Where and when do they arise
Most tornadoes in the United States occur east of the Rocky Mountains. They are especially concentrated in the central and southern plains (called “Tornado Alley “), as well as on the Gulf Coast and parts of Florida. However, tornadoes can occur anywhere, so it’s good to be prepared for them wherever you live. Once formed, tornadoes tend to move from southwest to northeast, but they are known to change direction.
Although tornadoes can occur at any time of the year, they are most likely to occur during the spring and summer months . Most often they occur in the late afternoon and early evening, when the pressure changes rapidly, usually between 15 and 21 hours.
Know the warning signs
Tornadoes can strike quickly and seemingly out of nowhere, but there are usually some warning signs. Make sure you know what the different weather alerts mean :
- Severe Thunderstorm Watch : Weather conditions suggest severe thunderstorms in your area. Severe thunderstorms are an early sign of a potential tornado.
- Severe Thunderstorm Warning : Observers have observed or indicated a severe thunderstorm in your area. These storms can cause rain, lightning, hail and wind at speeds of at least 58 miles per hour. These warnings last for about an hour, or until the storm has passed or becomes more severe.
- Tornado Clock : Weather conditions suggest severe thunderstorms are likely to develop into tornadoes in your area. If you see this warning, review your contingency plans and start preparing for the worst.
- Tornado Warning : It’s Happening Right Now! A tornado has been spotted or indicated on radar in your area, so include your contingency plan or take cover immediately.
If you are not near your phone or in an area with poor coverage, there are other signs of a tornado. Search and listen to :
- Dark, greenish storm clouds
- Dark low-lying clouds (especially when rotating)
- Heavy hail or heavy rain
- Swirling dust or debris on the ground (tornadoes don’t always have a funnel)
- Loud, continuous roar, similar to thunder or a freight train (but never fading)
These warning signs can save you tons of time, and time is critical in emergency situations.
When the tornado hits
After a warning has sounded or you have noticed a storm approaching, it is time to seek refuge immediately. Do not be shy! Remember, wherever you go, be sure to protect your head. Most tornado injuries involve flying debris. And never leave a building trying to escape a tornado. You can’t run away from him.
If you are at home
Go inside and move to a small inner room with no windows. The lower the room, the better. If you have a basement or cellar, go there. Stay away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. The idea is to put as many walls as possible between you and the outside world. Once in a safe room, crawl under a sturdy desk or desk and cover your head and neck with your hands, a heavy coat, a thick blanket, or pillows to protect yourself from debris. If you live in an industrial or mobile home, leave immediately and head to the nearest durable building. Mobile homes offer very little protection. Keep pets on a leash, in a crate or carrier .
If you are at work or school
Go to a pre-designated safe location, such as a safe room, a storm cellar, or a windowless interior room. If you are in a multi-story building, head to the small inner room on the lowest floor. Avoid any buildings with large roof areas , such as gyms, arenas, or shopping malls, if possible. These buildings are highly likely to collapse under pressure during a tornado. Follow the instructions from the security officer or teacher in your office.
If you are in a hotel or airport
Hotels may have a basement or other designated safe area. Follow the instructions of the hotel staff . If not, seek refuge in indoor bathrooms or closets close to the center of the building. Protect yourself with pillows, blankets and mattresses. Be sure to report any personal injury or property damage when this is over.
If you are in an airport lobby or terminal during a tornado warning, airport staff should direct you to a safe area (often called tornado shelters). You may be advised to leave your luggage , follow the instructions.
If you’re in your car or truck
Don’t try to run away from the tornado – it’s faster than you and doesn’t need to hold onto the road. Instead, boldly drive to the nearest sturdy-looking building. Once there, park your car outside the lane and go inside. If you are stuck in a car : Park, fasten your seat belt, lower your head under the windows, and cover your head and neck with a coat, blanket, seat cushion or hands. Airbags and the car’s frame will provide some protection. Never seek refuge under a bridge or overpass. You are safer in a low, level and open area.
If you are on the street
If it is not possible to reach the hideout on time, you have several options. If you can walk up to a building, do so and sit down against a strong wall. If you are outdoors, move away from trees, cars, and other potentially lethal debris, and then lie facedown in a ditch or other low-lying area. Cover your head and neck with whatever you have.
After the tornado
If you are trapped in debris, FEMA recommends that you do not try to move, kick up dust, or go outside. You can get hurt and make the situation worse. Instead, tap on a pipe, wall, or other material that makes sound. Whistle or shout if you can for the rescuers to find you.
When the storm has died down, talk to your family and friends to make sure no one is hurt. Keep them together until the end. Turn on the radio and listen to instructions from local authorities and emergency personnel. Be extremely careful when you start cleaning. Stay away from debris, damaged buildings and collapsed power lines, and watch out for broken glass and other sharp objects on the ground. Be sure to wear protective clothing when handling trash and do not attempt to lift heavy rubbish by yourself. If you have a power outage, use flashlights and lamps, not matches, lighters, or candles. You don’t want to add fire to your insurance claim.