Hazard Information

A tornado (or twister) is a powerful rotating column of wind that can hurt people and damage property. Large thunderstorms can create multiple tornadoes. Tornadoes often appear after a heavy rain or hail with a sky that is green, yellow or black in colour.

Check local weather and forecasts online.

Safety Tips

• Be aware of weather conditions and warnings

• Seek shelter immediately if a warning has been issued or you believe one could occur

If you're indoors:

• The safest place to be is an underground shelter, basement or safe room

• If you don't have a basement, go to the centre of an interior room on the lowest level away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls - put as many walls as possible between you and the outside

• Get under a sturdy piece of furniture — use your arms to protect your head and neck

• Don't open windows

If you're outdoors:

• don't wait until you see the tornado to get inside

• if you can't get inside, lie flat in a ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands

• don't go under an overpass or bridge - you're safer in a low, flat area

If you're in a mobile home:

• Go to the nearest sturdy building or shelter immediately. Mobile homes do not offer much protection from tornadoes.

If power outage results:

• Important fire safety tips during power outages

Prepare Now

• Have a safe room in your home where everyone gathers during a tornado — a basement, storm cellar or interior room on the lowest floor with no windows

• Conduct a tornado drill to make sure everyone knows where to go if a tornado is coming

• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage

Learn about different emergencies and how to be prepared.

Emergencies can strike anywhere, at any time.

Disaster Relief Assistance

Helps individuals, farmers, small business and non-profit organizations get back on their feet after a natural disaster.