Tornado safety
The safest place in a tornado is underground or in a purpose-built storm shelter. If neither is available, put as many walls as possible between you and the outside, on the lowest floor.
Where to shelter
- House with a basement: go to the basement, under a sturdy table or stairwell, away from windows and heavy objects on the floor above.
- House without a basement: use a small interior room on the lowest floor, such as a closet, bathroom or hallway. Cover yourself with blankets, a mattress or wear a helmet.
- Apartment or high-rise: go to the lowest floor you can reach quickly, into an interior hallway or stairwell.
- Mobile or manufactured home: leave before the storm arrives for a sturdy building or community shelter. Mobile homes offer little protection even when tied down.
- In a vehicle: drive to a sturdy building if you can do so safely. If debris is flying, stay buckled in with your head below the windows and covered, or lie in a ditch away from the car if it is lower than the road.
- School, store or office: follow the building's plan; interior hallways on the lowest floor are usually best. Avoid gyms, cafeterias and auditoriums with wide roofs.
Before tornado season
- Pick your shelter spot at home, work and school.
- Make sure your phone receives Wireless Emergency Alerts, and consider a NOAA Weather Radio. How to set up alerts.
- Keep shoes, a flashlight, a whistle and a helmet near your shelter.
- Practice with your family, especially for night-time warnings.
Warning signs
Many tornadoes are hidden by rain or darkness, so do not wait to see one. Signs include a loud continuous roar, a rotating wall cloud, debris in the air and a sudden calm after intense hail or rain. Sirens are designed to warn people outdoors and may not be heard inside.
After the tornado
- Watch for downed power lines, broken glass and gas leaks.
- Wear sturdy shoes and gloves when moving through debris.
- Use phones for emergencies only so lines stay open, and text family to tell them you are safe.