Know your Tornado Terminology

TORNADO WATCH:  Conditions are favorable for thunderstorms to form tornadoes within the watch area through a set timeframe. Be prepared for weather conditions to change quickly and review/make a Severe Weather Safety Plan. Check weather conditions frequently.

What should you do during a Tornado Watch?

• Identify your safe place in the event of severe weather and review or make a Severe Weather Safety Plan with your family making sure every member knows the plan.

Watch for updates from WDIO Storm Track Weather.

TORNADO WARNING: A tornado has been spotted and will impact those in the warned area.  If you are in a tornado warning, you need to seek shelter immediately. 

What should you do during a Tornado Warning?

At Home:

• Follow your Severe Weather Safety Plan.
• Seek shelter in the lowest level in your home; basement is ideal but if you don’t have a basement, a small interior room on the lowest level of your home without windows or exterior walls will do.
• Crouch down, covering your neck with your hands. Get under a piece of furniture if possible.

If caught Outside: 

• Seek shelter indoors.
• If driving, do not attempt to outrun a tornado.
• Do not attempt to seek shelter in a car.
• Do not seek shelter under a bridge or overpass
• If you cannot move indoors, seek shelter in a ditch or low lying area.
• Crouch down, covering your head and neck with your hands