A tornado watch means that conditions are right
for tornado development.
A tornado warning means that a tornado has been
sighted on the ground or that one has been indicated by
Doppler Radar.
What to do if
a tornado warning is issued for your area or whenever
a tornado threatens:
- IN HOMES
OR SMALL BUILDINGS: Stay away from windows, doors,
and outside walls. Don't open the windows (it's a
myth that opening windows protects homes from tornado
damage). Go to the basement (if available) or to an
interior room on the lowest floor, such as a closet
or bathroom. Wrap yourself in overcoats, blankets
or towels to protect yourself from flying debris.
- IN SCHOOLS,
HOSPITALS, FACTORIES, OR SHOPPING CENTERS: Go
to interior rooms and halls on the lowest floor. Stay
away from glass enclosed places or areas with wide-span
roofs such as auditoriums, gymnasiums, cafeterias
and warehouses. Crouch down and cover your head as
shown in the drawing.
- IN HIGH-RISE
BUILDINGS: Go to interior small rooms or halls.
Stay away from exterior walls or glassy areas.
- IN CARS
OR MOBILE HOMES: ABANDON THEM IMMEDIATELY.
Most tornado deaths occur in cars and mobile homes.
If you are in either of those locations, leave them
and go to a substantial structure or designated tornado
shelter. Remember: If you see a tornado and it looks
like it is not moving, it might be heading straight
at you.
- IF NO SUITABLE
STRUCTURE IS NEARBY: Lie flat in the nearest ditch
ravine, culvert or other depression and use your hands
to cover your head. Leave as soon as tornado danger
has passed to avoid swollen stream waters that often
accompany thunderstorms.
Sources: The Austin Office of Emergency Managment
and the Norman
National Weather Service Forecast Office
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