With severe weather threatening Alabama tonight…now is a good time to review your tornado safety rules…

Tornadoes are nature’s most violent weather phenomena. Despite vastly improved detection and warning systems, seconds often make the difference between life and death when you are in the path of a tornado.

First, you need to have reliable sources of severe weather information. A NOAA Weatheradio is as important as a smoke detector here in Alabama. Of course, the best source for tornado information is ABC3340. Now, with streaming coverage on AL.com, that gives one more great option for getting the best longform weather coverage in the country. You can also stay updated on the general situation with our blog.

Know the difference between a watch and a warning. We talk about it all the time, but invariably after a storm, people who are questioned don’t understand the difference. A Tornado Watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes. You can expect Tornado Watches to be issued early this morning. During a watch, you should be extra alert for developing weather conditions and keep track of the situation continuously. A Tornado Warning is issued when a possible tornado is indicated on Doppler radar or has been sighted. You must take action when a warning is issued. It is important to learn a little geography. Know your county and surrounding counties and communities.

Because you might only have seconds, you need to know instinctively what to do. Think lowest floor, center of the house or building, away from windows. In public facilities, buildings or shopping centers, go to the designated shelter area. At home, a basement is best. Stay away from areas where chimneys might collapse. Get under something sturdy like a workbench or heavy piece of furniture. Protect yourself with mattresses or pillows. If no basement is available, get in an interior closet or bathroom, or hallway. Seal off any areas that have windows.

If you live in a mobile home, you should evacuate to a safer structure when watches are issued. Go visit friends or family. If you are driving during a tornado warning, stop, park and go in a substantial structure. If there is no such shelter, or if you are caught out in the open, find a ditch or depression, but get away from where your car might be blown by the tornado.

Finally, you cannot always depend on hearing a warning. You should become aware of the signs of an approaching tornado. Remember that many of our tornadoes are obscured by rain, low clouds or terrain. Look for dark, rolling clouds. Intense lightning can be a sign. Large hail can often indicate that a tornado is nearby. You can take a free National Weather Service SKYWARN class to learn more.

Be safe. Be ready tonight.