Philomath Vol. Fire Dept.

Tornadoes are some of natures most violent and deadly storms. They can take just about any shape or size and are spawned from strong thunderstorms. They are unpredictable beasts; tornadoes can strike one at a time or in a group; they can leave a minor path of destruction or span several miles wide; some will only stay on the ground for a matter of seconds or minutes while others can remain on the ground for hours! While there is nothing that can be done to prevent tornadoes, there are ways you can prepare to protect your heath and safety.

As we are approaching "tornado season", it is important to be prepared. The typical tornado season usually falls between the months of April - July and the peak months are usually May and June, BUT tornadoes are possible at any time of the year, even winter! In many cases advance warnings can be issued for tornadoes, but it is important to be aware that tornadoes can change direction, speed and intensity very quickly.

There are several types of watches and warnings. A TORNADO WATCH means that conditions favor the formation of tornadoes. A TORNADO WARNING means that a tornado funnel is sighted or indicated by weather radar. When a tornado warning is issued you should take shelter immediately!

What to do BEFORE a tornado:

• Be alert to changing weather conditions
• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information
• Charge your cell phones and flashlights
• Look for approaching storms
  -There are several danger signs you can look for that can indicate the possibility for a tornado including: dark, almost greenish sky, large hail, a large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating), and a loud roar, similar to a freight train

What to do DURING a tornado:

• If you are in a tornado warning, seek shelter IMMEDIATELY!!
• If you are in a structure (e.g. residence, small building, school, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center, high-rise building); go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not open windows.
• If you are in a vehicle, trailer, or mobile home; get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes
• If you are outside with no shelter; Lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding.
• Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location
• Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.
• Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.

Source: CDC- http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/tornadoes/prepared.asp