Quick Answer
Yes, evacuate your home during a tornado warning if possible, and seek shelter in a nearby storm cellar or a sturdy building. If no shelter is available, get to a low-lying area such as a ditch or a depression and cover your head and neck with your arms. If you are in a vehicle, leave it and seek shelter.
Understanding Tornado Warnings
A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. This means that a tornado is imminent or already occurring. If you receive a tornado warning, do not wait to see if the tornado will pass - take immediate action to protect yourself. If you are in a mobile home, leave immediately and go to a sturdy building or shelter.
Identifying Safe Shelters
If you are in a building, go to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor. This should be a room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet. If you are in a mobile home, do not stay in the home - leave immediately and go to a sturdy building or shelter. If you are outside, lie flat in a low-lying area such as a ditch or depression and cover your head and neck with your arms.
Preparing for a Tornado
Before a tornado warning is issued, make sure you have a plan in place. Know the safest route to a shelter and identify the safest areas of your home or building. Practice your plan with all household members so that everyone knows what to do in case of a tornado. Keep a tornado emergency kit in your home, which should include a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and a first aid kit. Stay informed about weather conditions and sign up for emergency alerts from your local government.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.