Tornado Preparation Guide
From www.FEMA.gov
Before a Tornado
• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
(See pdfs of lists on the bottom of the page)
• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials.
• Be alert to changing weather conditions. Look for approaching storms.
Look for the following danger signs:
o Dark, often greenish sky
o Large hail
o A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
o Loud roar, similar to a freight train.
o If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.
Tornado Facts
Quick facts you should know about tornadoes:
• They may strike quickly, with little or no warning.
• They may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris
are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel.
• The average tornado moves Southwest to Northeast,
but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.
• The average forward speed of a tornado is 30 mph, but may vary from stationary to 70 mph.
• Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
• Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water.
• Tornadoes are most frequently reported east of the Rocky Mountains
during spring and summer months.
• Peak tornado season in the southern states is March through May;
in the northern states, it is late spring through early summer.
• Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 pm and 9 pm, but can occur at any time.
Know the Terms
Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a tornado hazard:
Tornado Watch - Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.
Tornado Warning - A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.
For more information on natural disasters and preparedness, go to:
http://www.ready.gov/natural-disasters
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