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Tornado Safety & What Position to Get in When a Tornado Is Coming

Tornadoes are dangerous, highly destructive funnels of swirling wind. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, tornadoes kill 80 people a year and injure many more. However, in spite of a tornado's destructive potential, there are ways to protect oneself. Although survival and safety cannot be guaranteed in an emergency, there are many ways to increase the odds of making it through a tornado unharmed.

  1. Tornado Warning

    • The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends not trying to outrun a tornado. If a tornado warning is in effect, or the signs of a tornado are apparent, seek shelter immediately. Tornadoes often accompany thunderstorms, and may be indicated by a dark, green-tinted sky. Although not always visible, tornadoes may appear as a funnel extending from the clouds to the ground or to just above the ground. If a tornado is seen, it is important to get to shelter as quickly as possible.

    Shelter

    • Underground shelter, such as a basement, is the best place to wait out a tornado. The strongest of tornadoes can tear even a relatively sturdy building apart. If no basement is available, the first floor of a building is the next best place to be. Stay away from windows, as windows are prone to breaking in a tornado and the sharp, broken glass can become a deadly projectile. A table may provide some degree of protection from flying debris. If hiding under a table, lie on your stomach and protect the back of your head and neck with your arms.

    Outdoors

    • If you are outside and shelter is out of reach, find the lowest ground possible. A ditch or creek bed, for example, may provide some protection from a tornado. In this case, it is important to lie as flat to the ground as possible. Cover your head and neck, and wait until the tornado has completely passed and there is no debris in the air before getting up. This is only a last resort, however, as shelter will be safer than open air during a tornado.

    Vehicles

    • According to FEMA, staying in a vehicle during a tornado is dangerous. Vehicles can be easily lifted and thrown by a tornado's powerful winds, essentially trapping you in a flying projectile. Do not attempt to drive away from a tornado, as tornadoes are unpredictable and fast-moving. Instead, get out of your vehicle at once and get to the closest secure building possible. If out in the open, get as far away from the vehicle as possible, as the vehicle could become a dangerous piece of debris if caught in the tornado.

    Disaster Kit

    • In case of emergencies such as tornadoes, every home should have a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water, as well as a first-aid kit. A portable radio should also be on hand to check for emergency weather announcements. Ideally, a crank-powered radio should be used as batteries can lose their charge over time. Alternatively, spare batteries may be stored with a battery-operated radio.

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