To stay safe during a tornado, it is crucial to take shelter immediately if there is a tornado warning or if you see signs of a tornado such as a rotating funnel-shaped cloud, dark or green-colored sky, large hail, or a loud roar like a freight train. The safest place at home is the basement or an interior room without windows on the lowest floor. If you are in a mobile home, leave immediately for a more substantial building. If outdoors and no shelter is available, lie flat in a low-lying area like a ditch and protect your head and neck. Avoid vehicles, overpasses, and bridges, and never try to outrun a tornado in a car. Always protect your head and stay tuned to local weather updates for warnings.
Key Safety Tips
- Seek the basement or interior windowless room on the lowest floor.
- Cover your body with a mattress, blanket, or sleeping bag and protect your head.
- Evacuate mobile homes for sturdier buildings.
- If caught outside, lie in a ditch or low ground, avoiding trees and debris.
- Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle; if trapped, stay in the vehicle with seatbelt or find low ground.
- Stay away from windows and large open spaces.
- Follow tornado drills at school or work.
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts for updates and warnings.
This ensures the best chance of minimizing injury from flying debris and structural collapse during a tornado.
