Time to Dust off the Tornado Safety Plan

Now is a good time to review your tornado safety plan…

It is critical that you have a 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. Streaming coverage on AlabamaWX.com that gives one more great option for getting the best longform weather coverage in the country. You can also hear coverage simulcast on several radio partners across the area. Always, you can stay updated on the latest right here on AlabamaWX.com.

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, schools 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 before warnings are issued.

…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.

Be safe. Be ready tomorrow.

Category: Alabama's Weather, Severe Weather