Tornadoes can occur anywhere in the US but are most common in "Tornado Alley" (central plains states) and "Dixie Alley" (southeastern states). They can develop rapidly with little warning, produce winds exceeding 300 mph, and destroy well-built structures in seconds.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Know your risk — Determine the tornado frequency in your area. Tornadoes are most common in spring and summer but can occur any time of year.
- Identify your safe room — The safest place is underground (basement, storm cellar). If no basement, use an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows (bathroom, closet, hallway). In mobile h...
- Set up warning systems — Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup and tone alert. Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone. Download weather apps with severe weather notificati...
- Prepare your shelter area — Stock with emergency supplies: helmets or bike helmets (head injuries are the leading cause of tornado deaths), sturdy shoes, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, water...
- Create a family tornado plan — Ensure every family member knows the safe room location and what to do. Establish a plan for when family members are at work, school, or away from home.
- Strengthen your home — Reinforce garage doors (the most vulnerable entry point). Secure the roof with hurricane clips or straps. Install impact-resistant windows or shutters.
- Practice tornado drills — Conduct drills at least twice a year. Time how long it takes everyone to reach the safe room from different locations in the house. Practice at night.
- When a Tornado Watch is issued — Stay alert and monitor weather closely. Review your plan. Move vehicles into the garage. Charge phones. Bring outdoor items inside.
- When a Tornado Warning is issued — Go to your safe room IMMEDIATELY. Get under a sturdy table. Cover yourself with a mattress, blankets, or sleeping bag. Protect your head and neck. Stay away from ...
- After a tornado — Stay in your shelter until the threat has passed. Watch for debris, downed power lines, and gas leaks. Do not enter damaged buildings. Check on neighbors. Document damage with pho...
Common Mistakes
- Thinking tornadoes only happen in Tornado Alley
- Opening windows
- Sheltering under a highway overpass
- Staying in a mobile/manufactured home
- Ignoring nighttime tornadoes
Pro Tips
- Bike helmets and sports helmets significantly reduce head injury risk
- If you are driving and a tornado approaches, pull over, park with the engine ...
- Storm cellars and safe rooms can be installed for $3,000-$10,000 and are elig...
- Tornado Alley residents should consider having an underground storm shelter o...
- Practice your drill during Severe Weather Awareness Week (held each spring in...