Tornado Warning: What do Do

Find out what to do in case of a tornado warning.

Act immediately when a tornado warning is issued. Do not wait until you actually see a tornado to identify a safe location.

Take shelter

• Take shelter in a building away from windows.
  • If you can't get to an underground shelter or safe room, the safest alternative is a small, windowless interior room or hallway, such as an interior bathroom, on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
  • If you are caught outdoors, seek shelter in a basement or sturdy building.
• Take shelter in a vehicle if you cannot find a building.
  • Immediately get into the vehicle, buckle your seat belt, and try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter.
  • If you see flying debris while driving, pull over and park. Follow these options as a last resort:
    • Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head below the windows, covering yourself with your hands and a blanket if possible.
    • If you can safely get lower than the level of the roadway, exit your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.

Be prepared

• Identify a safe location well in advance of any severe weather.
• Make sure you have access to weather alerts, such as from a weather radio, wherever you are.

Resources

• Tornado Safety and Severe Weather Information from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).