Tornados

Tornadoes are violently, spinning columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm down to the ground.  They look like rotating funnel clouds and take in dust and debris.  A tornado can hit rapidly with little warning and can cause damage, injuries and fatalities.  The typical tornado travels from the Southwest to Northeast at approximately 30 mph; however, they have been known to move in any direction and at speeds from stationary to 70 mph.  Tornado season is usually in the spring and summer.

What to do before a tornado

1.  Know these important terms:

• Tornado Watch – Tornadoes are possible.  Remain alert to weather conditions and tune in to a radio or television station for more information.

• Tornado Warning – A tornado has been sighted or revealed by weather radar.  Immediately seek shelter.

2.  Learn about the potential for tornadoes in your area and what warning signals are used in your community.

3.  Purchase a battery-powered or battery backed-up radio (either a NOAA Weather Radio or commercial radio).

4.  Establish what places will be good for seeking shelter.  This should be a basement, storm cellar or an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of the building.

5.  Practice going to the designated shelter area.

6.  Learn the locations to shelter in places where your household spends time (i.e. schools, public buildings, nursing homes, churches, etc.).

7.  Assemble an emergency kit.

What to do during a tornado watch

1.  Tune in to radio or television stations for emergency information.

2.  Be conscious of approaching storms.  Notify authorities if you see any funnel clouds.

3.  The following may be tornado indicators:

• Dark, greenish sky

• Large hail

• A dark, low-lying cloud which may be rotating

• A loud roar which sounds like a train.

Caution!

• While some tornadoes may be visible, others may be hidden by low clouds.

• Tornadoes can arise quickly and there may be no warning time.

• Sometimes the wind dies down before a tornado hits.

• A tornado may be indicated by a cloud of debris, even if you cannot see the funnel.

• Typically a tornado occurs at the back of a thunderstorm; therefore, you may see sunlit skies behind a tornado.

• Avoid buildings with wide roof spans (i.e. cafeterias, auditoriums, supermarkets, etc.).

• Get family and pets together and take shelter immediately

What to do during a tornado warning

1.  If a tornado has been spotted, immediately take shelter.  Your sheltering place should be a basement, storm cellar or an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of the building.  Try to put as many walls between you and the outside.  Get underneath a well-built table and protect your head neck with your arms.

2.  Stay in your shelter until the danger has passed.

3.  Do not open windows; spend this time finding shelter.

4.  Stay in the center of the room, away from doors, windows, outside walls and corners.

5.  In public buildings, proceed to designated shelter locations.  These will typically be on the lowest floors and away from windows and open areas.

6.  If you are in a tall building, move to a small, interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.

7.  If you are in a vehicle or mobile home, go to a nearby building or storm shelter.

8.  If you are outside with no protection, lie in a ditch or hollow and use your hands to cover your head.  Be conscious of the possibility of flooding.  Do move under a bridge or overpass.

9.  If you are in an urban or congested area, do not attempt to outrun a tornado in a vehicle.  Because tornadoes move quickly and unpredictably, you are better protected in a shelter.

10.  Look out for airborne debris; this causes most deaths and injuries.

What to do after a tornado

1.  Watch out for broken glass and downed power lines.

2.  Check for injuries and follow proper first aid procedures.

3.  Be cautious if going in a damaged building.  The structure may be unstable and no longer resting on its foundation.

(Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency. Are You Ready? A Guide to Citizen Preparedness.)

For More Information, Please Visit

• Federal Emergency Management Agency        

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Illinois Emergency Management Agency 

• American Red Cross

• Tornado Alley Breeds Violent Storms by Chris Cappella, USA Today

Other Natural Disasters

• Floods

• Tornadoes

• Thunderstorms

• Winter Weather

• Extreme Heat

• Fire

• Earthquake

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