Are you prepared for a tornado?
Preparing for Tornado Season
Even though tornadoes are most common in the central U.S., they can strike anytime and anywhere. May through July is peak tornado season.
- Deadly tornadoes can occur anywhere with limited warning, so it’s important to be prepared.
- A tornado watch means tornadoes are possible, so keep checking for news and updates.
- A tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated on radar, so seek shelter immediately.
- It’s also important to have an emergency supply kit ready before any storm.
- Dark, greenish sky
- Large hail
- Low-lying clouds, particularly if rotating
- Loud roar, similar to a freight train
- Turn off utilities, especially natural gas or propane, to avoid fire.
- Consider going to an emergency shelter.
- Stay clear of downed wires and evacuate the area immediately if you smell gas.
- Park your car in a garage or next to a building to protect it from wind and flying debris.
- Develop a family communication plan.
- Charge your cellphone.
- Be aware of weather conditions that spawn tornadoes, especially powerful thunderstorms.
- Stay inside and take cover, away from doors and windows and ideally in a basement.
- Monitor local news and weather before you head outside.
- Place infants and young children in car seats, even when indoors.
- If you’re outside with no shelter, lie flat in a ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands.