A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted, or indicated by weather radar, posing an imminent threat to life and property. It’s a high-alert notification, urging immediate action to seek shelter. Unlike a tornado watch, which means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop, a tornado warning means a tornado is happening or is about to happen in the specified area.
The National Weather Service (NWS) is the primary authority for issuing tornado warnings in the United States. When a forecaster sees a radar signature strongly suggesting a tornado, like a hook echo or a debris ball, or when a trained spotter visually confirms a tornado, a warning is triggered. The warning includes the specific locations under threat and a timeframe, often lasting for 30 to 60 minutes.
Receiving a tornado warning can happen through several channels. NOAA Weather Radio is a dedicated source, providing continuous weather broadcasts. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are automatically sent to smartphones in the affected area, providing a concise message with crucial details. Television and radio stations interrupt regular programming to broadcast warnings, often displaying maps showing the tornado’s predicted path. Weather apps and websites also deliver alerts based on your location.
Knowing what to do during a tornado warning is paramount. The safest course of action is to seek shelter immediately. If you are in a house or building, go to the lowest level, ideally an interior room like a basement, storm cellar, or an inside hallway. Stay away from windows, doors, and exterior walls. If possible, get under something sturdy like a heavy table or desk and protect your head and neck.
If you are in a vehicle, abandon it and seek shelter in a sturdy building. If no building is available, lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area, covering your head with your arms. Remember that overpasses are not safe shelters, as wind speeds can be amplified in those locations.
Mobile homes and manufactured homes offer little protection from tornadoes and should be evacuated immediately. Seek shelter in a designated community shelter or a more substantial building. Planning ahead is crucial. Know where your nearest shelter is located and have a family emergency plan in place.
After the tornado passes, remain in your shelter until authorities declare it safe to emerge. Be aware of potential hazards like downed power lines, damaged structures, and debris. Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary to keep roads clear for emergency vehicles.
Taking tornado warnings seriously and acting quickly can significantly increase your chances of survival. Stay informed, be prepared, and prioritize safety when a warning is issued.
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