A tornado is a column of violently rotating winds extending down from a thunderstorm cloud and touching the surface of the earth. Tornadoes most commonly occur during the months of May, June, July, and August, and in the late afternoon and evening hours. However, it is important to remember that tornadoes can occur at any time of the day and in almost any month during the year.
Know the Difference
- Tornado Watch: A tornado watch is issued when conditions exist for a tornado or severe weather to develop.
- Tornado Warning: A tornado warning is issued when National Weather Service (NWS) Doppler Radar indicates a thunderstorm is capable of producing a tornado, or when a tornado has been sighted by a credible source.
When a Tornado Warning is Issued
- Quickly move to shelter in the basement or lowest floor of a permanent structure.
- In homes and small buildings, go to the basement and get under something sturdy, like a workbench or stairwell. If no basement is available, go to an interior part
of the home on the lowest level. A good rule of thumb is to put as many walls between you and the tornado as possible.
- In schools, hospitals, and public places, move to designated shelter areas. Interior hallways on the lowest floors are generally best.
- Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls. Broken glass and wind blown projectiles cause more injuries and deaths than collapsed buildings. Protect your head with a pillow, blanket, or mattress.
- If you are caught outdoors, seek cover in a basement, shelter, or sturdy building. This is your safest alternative.
- If you are in the car and there is no shelter available, pull over and let your surroundings determine your next action to either:
- Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows, and cover your head with your hands and a blanket if possible; or
- If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, exit the car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.
- If you are boating or swimming, get to land and shelter immediately.
