Prepare for a Tornado
Familiarize
yourself with the terms that are used to identify a tornado
hazard.
A
tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area. You
should monitor NOAA Weather Radio local radio and television
news outlets for the latest developments.
A
tornado warning is when a tornado is actually occurring,
take shelter immediately.
Determine
in advance where you will take shelter in case of a tornado
warning. Storm cellars or basements provide the best
protection. If underground shelter is not available, go into
an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible. In
a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway
on the lowest floor possible.
Stay
away from windows, doors and outside walls. Go to the center
of the room. Stay away from corners because they attract
debris. A vehicle, trailer or mobile home does not provide
good protection. Plan to go quickly to a building with a
strong foundation, if possible.
If
shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other
low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You
are safer in a low, flat location. Plan to stay in the
shelter location until the danger has passed. Get a kit of
emergency supplies. Store it in your shelter location.
Visit NOAA Watch for more
weather-related information.
http://www.noaawatch.gov/
Plan to Take Shelter
If
local authorities issue a tornado warning or if you see a
funnel cloud. Take shelter immediately.
Listen
to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or
check the Internet often for official news and instructions
as they become available. See instructions for Emergency
Information.
Stay
in the shelter location until the danger has passed.
|
Fujita-Pearson Tornado Scale |
| |
| |
|
Scale |
Wind Speed |
| F-0 |
40-72 |
| F-1 |
73-112 |
| F-2 |
113-157 |
| F-3 |
158-206 |
| F-4 |
207-260 |
| F-5 |
261-318 |
|
|
|