Tornadoes are incredibly powerful wind funnels which can destroy anything in their path. It is vital for individuals to know what to do in case a tornado strikes a residence. Being prepared in the event of a storm may help to keep people safe from harm’s way. Here are three suggestions for what to do in the event of a tornado.
1. Create an Emergency Plan with the Family
There are areas that are more prone to tornadic activity than others, such as “tornado alley,” which is an area that spans across numerous states in the middle of the U.S. Individuals who live in areas where tornadoes frequently occur may benefit from creating an emergency plan. If a tornado touches down, there might only be a few seconds to get to shelter and having a plan of where to seek shelter is crucial. Hunkering down in the basement of a home or heading into a residential storm shelter equipped with tornado resistant doors may be safe places to go. An interior bathroom or closet may also be an option to seek shelter from the wind. As part of an emergency plan, it may be beneficial to stock these areas of the residence with water, food, flashlights and an emergency radio.
2. Keep an Eye on the Sky
Tornadoes may be accompanied by intense thunderstorms, which can include hailstones. Keeping a watchful eye on the sky and monitoring news and weather reports during inclement weather is important. Often, a “tornado watch” or a “severe thunderstorm warning” may be issued, which may provide some additional time to prepare for the possibility of a tornado. There may also be helpful phone apps to install on a smartphone that can offer alerts for severe weather.
3. Avoid Driving During a Tornado
Theoretically, it may be possible to “outrun” a tornado by quickly speeding away from it in a car. However, it is not advisable to try to drive away from a tornado. Attempting to do so may create a dangerous situation due to the possibility of rapidly changing weather conditions. It may be a safer option to shelter in place at home, and continuously monitor weather conditions to ensure that the storm is over.
