Tornadoes

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground, usually in the shape of a funnel.

Tornadoes are earth’s most violent storms and often form quickly, leaving little time to make life-or-death decisions. To survive a tornado, advanced planning and a quick response are essential.

Before a tornado

• Check out FLASH Hurricane Strong for simple ways to strengthen your homes against flooding, high winds and lightning.
• Review your family preparedness plan.
• Establish a family communications plan.
• Assemble a disaster supply kit.
• Designate an area in your home as a shelter:
  • The safest place during a tornado is a storm shelter or underground room, such as a basement or cellar.
  • If going underground is not an option and you do not have access to a storm shelter, the next safest place is a small interior room (such as a bathroom, hallway or closet) on the lowest floor, away from windows and exterior walls.
• Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning:
  • Tornado watch: A tornado is possible. Stay tuned to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or TV for more information and be prepared to seek shelter quickly if necessary.
  • Tornado warning: A tornado is expected or occurring. Take shelter immediately.
• Be familiar with tornado warning signs:
  • An approaching cloud of debris can mark the location of a tornado even if a funnel is not visible.
  • Dark, towering and threatening clouds.
  • Greenish sky.
  • Large hail.
  • Rotating, low-lying clouds.
  • Loud roar, similar to a train.

During a tornado

• If in a structure (home, school, shopping center, etc.):
  • Quickly go to your predesignated shelter, such as a basement, storm shelter or interior room on the lowest level of the building.
  • Avoid windows, corners and places with wide-span roofs such as cafeterias and auditoriums.
  • Get under a sturdy table or similar piece of furniture, and cover your head with your arms.
  • If in a mobile home, get out immediately and find shelter in a nearby building.
  • If time permits, put on sturdy shoes.
• If outside:
  • Get inside a building, if possible.
  • If a shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or crouch near a strong building and cover your head with your arms.
• If in a vehicle:
  • Never try to outdrive a tornado; tornadoes can change direction quickly and lift up a vehicle.
  • Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building, or look for a ditch to lie down in.
  • Avoid bridges and overpasses.

After a tornado

• Stay tuned to a NOAA weather radio or TV for updated information.
• Help injured or trapped people. Don’t try to move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of death or further injury. Call for help.
• Stay out of damaged buildings. Do not return home until authorities declare it is safe.
• Be aware of hazards from broken glass, exposed nails and downed power lines.
• Inspect your home:
  • Leave the house if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
  • Check for damage to walls, roof, foundation, electrical system and water lines.
  • Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches or other flammable liquids immediately.
  • Notify your insurance company if your home is damaged.
• Wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves and gloves to minimize risks.
• Avoid making phone calls except in serious emergencies.

Additional resources

Emergency/preparedness information

• American Red Cross
• Federal Emergency Management Agency
  • Ready.gov: Tornadoes
• National Weather Service
  • Tornado safety 

Current storm information

• National Weather Service
• Storm Prediction Center

Other information

• NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards