Tornadoes are one of nature’s most destructive forces, capable of causing immense damage and posing serious threats to human life. While they can occur at any time of the year, tornadoes are most common in the spring and early summer months, making it crucial for individuals and communities to be prepared.

In this blog, we’ll discuss tornado alerts and the quick actions you can take to ensure your safety during a tornado.

Understanding Tornado Alerts

Stay Informed: The first step in staying safe during a tornado is to stay informed about weather conditions. Keep a weather radio, a smartphone with a weather app, or a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio on hand. These devices can provide you with real-time updates and tornado alerts issued by the National Weather Service (NWS).

Tornado Watch vs. Tornado Warning: It’s essential to understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in your area. On the other hand, a tornado warning indicates that a tornado has been spotted or detected by radar, and immediate action is necessary.

Quick Actions to Ensure Your Safety

When a tornado warning is issued for your area, it’s crucial to act quickly and decisively. Here are the steps you should take to ensure your safety:

Stay Informed

While in your shelter, continue to stay informed about the tornado’s progress. Keep your weather radio or smartphone handy and listen for updates. It’s essential to remain in your safe location until the all-clear signal is given.

Avoid Windows

Stay away from windows; high winds and flying debris can shatter glass, causing severe injuries. Protect yourself by staying in an interior room away from exterior walls.

Mobile Homes

If you live in a mobile home, it’s crucial to have a plan in advance. Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to tornadoes. The best course of action is to abandon the mobile home and seek shelter in a nearby sturdy building or designated tornado shelter.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Before tornado season begins, assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies, including non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents. Having this kit readily available can be a lifesaver during a tornado or any other emergency.

Seek Shelter

The first and most crucial action during a tornado warning is to seek shelter immediately. If you are at home, head to a small, windowless, and centrally located room on the lowest floor, such as a basement, bathroom, or closet. Protect yourself from flying debris by using heavy blankets, mattresses, or pillows as cover.

Stay Protected with Tornado Shelter

At Tornado Shelter, we are set on helping our clients achieve the best safe rooms in Oklahoma. Our safe rooms are designed specially to help you go beyond high-quality standards. Moreover, our safe rooms are easily customizable according to the client’s needs.

To learn more about our projects, get in touch with us.