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Tornado Safety: What to Do During a Watch and a Warning

What is the Difference Between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning?

A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. When a tornado watch is issued, you should be prepared to take shelter if a tornado warning is issued or if you see signs of a tornado, such as a funnel cloud or debris rotating in the air. In contrast, a tornado warning means that a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. When a tornado warning is issued, you should take shelter immediately.

What to Do During a Tornado Watch

If a tornado watch is issued for your area, you should:

Listen to local news and weather reports for updates.
Be prepared to take shelter if a tornado warning is issued or if you see signs of a tornado.
Identify a sturdy building where you can take shelter, such as a basement, storm cellar, or interior room on the lowest floor.
Gather your family and pets and move to your designated shelter area.
Stay away from windows and exterior walls.

What to Do During a Tornado Warning

If a tornado warning is issued for your area, you should:

Take shelter immediately.
Go to the lowest level of your home and to an interior room, such as a basement, storm cellar, or bathroom.
Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
Cover your body with blankets or pillows for protection from debris.
Stay in your shelter until the tornado warning has expired or until you are told it is safe to come out.

Staying Safe During a Tornado

Here are some additional tips for staying safe during a tornado:

If you are outside when a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter in a sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch and cover your head with your hands.
Do not try to outrun a tornado in a car. Tornadoes can travel faster than 60 miles per hour.
If you are in a mobile home, evacuate immediately and seek shelter in a sturdy building.
After a tornado has passed, be aware of downed power lines and debris. Do not touch downed power lines, and report them to the utility company.