Tornado & Storm Preparedness: What to Do Before, During, and After

Storms and tornadoes can strike with little warning, but proper storm preparedness can help keep your family safe. These powerful forces of nature can cause severe damage in minutes, but having a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference.

Let’s explore some practical steps you can take today to ensure you’re ready when severe weather hits.

Before the Storm: Preparation is Key

Preparation is the most effective way to protect your home and loved ones from the dangers of tornadoes and severe storms. The more proactive you are, the better your chances of staying safe when the storm hits.

Stay Informed

Regularly check local weather forecasts and alerts to stay updated on any approaching storms. Knowing the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning is essential – a watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a warning means a tornado has been spotted or detected by radar. Sign up for emergency alerts on your phone and listen to NOAA Weather Radio for real-time updates.

Create an Emergency Plan

Have a clear plan in place that outlines what to do when a tornado warning is issued. Identify a safe place in your home, work, or school where you and your family can take shelter. Discuss emergency contacts, evacuation routes, and communication methods in case you get separated. Practicing drills regularly can help ensure everyone knows what to do in an actual emergency.

Identify Safe Shelter

Find a safe place in your home, such as a small, windowless interior room on the lowest level, like a basement, storm cellar, or reinforced safe room. If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure, locate a nearby sturdy building where you can safely take shelter. Many communities have designated storm shelters – know their locations and how to get there quickly.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Keep an emergency kit ready with necessities like non-perishable food, bottled water, medications, important documents, a first aid kit, a flashlight, extra batteries, and a whistle. Consider adding baby supplies, pet essentials, and cash in case ATMs and card systems are down. Store the kit in an easily accessible place.

Secure Your Property

Reduce potential hazards by trimming trees, securing outdoor furniture, and reinforcing doors and windows to prevent wind and debris damage. Consider installing storm shutters and reinforcing your garage door to withstand strong winds. Check your home insurance policy to ensure it covers storm-related damages.

During the Storm: Taking Immediate Action

Once the storm is in full force, quick and decisive actions can save lives.

Seek Shelter Right Away

If a tornado warning is issued, move to your designated safe area immediately. Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls. Use heavy blankets, a mattress, or even a helmet to protect yourself from flying debris. Avoid open spaces and do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle – find a sturdy shelter instead.

Stay Connected

Keep a battery-powered weather radio or smartphone handy to receive real-time updates from emergency officials. Charge your devices before the storm hits, and have a backup power source ready. If you lose power, use your phone only when necessary to conserve battery life.

Protect Yourself

If you’re outside with no shelter, lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area, covering your head with your hands. Never seek shelter under bridges or overpasses, as wind speeds can be stronger in these areas. If driving, leave your car and find the lowest possible spot to take cover.

Remain Calm and Alert

Tornadoes often sound like a loud, roaring train – stay alert to changes in weather conditions. Keep noise to a minimum to hear emergency alerts or warnings. If you’re with children, reassure them and keep them close to maintain safety.

After the Storm: Staying Safe and Recovering

The aftermath of a tornado or storm can be just as dangerous as the event itself. Take precautions to avoid injury and ensure a smooth recovery process.

Watch for Hazards

Be cautious of downed power lines, broken glass, and unstable structures. Never touch fallen power lines, as they may still be live. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, evacuate immediately and contact authorities. Wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing when walking through debris.

Check for Injuries

Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid as needed and seek medical attention for serious wounds. Avoid moving severely injured individuals unless they are in immediate danger. Wash minor cuts with clean water to prevent infection.

Contact Loved Ones

Let family and friends know you are safe. If cell service is down, try using emergency hotlines or local shelters to relay messages.

Document Damage

Take photos and videos of property damage for insurance claims. List damaged items and contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Be aware of potential scammers offering quick repairs – verify contractors before hiring.

Follow Official Instructions

Stay updated on local authority announcements regarding water contamination, road closures, and curfews. If you were evacuated, return home only when officials declare it safe. Be cautious when entering damaged buildings, as structural integrity may be compromised.

Help Your Community Stay Prepared

Encourage Emergency Preparedness

Share safety tips with neighbors and join community disaster response efforts. A well-prepared community can respond better to emergencies. Encourage participation in local emergency preparedness programs.

Support Recovery Efforts

Volunteer with local organizations or donate supplies to those affected. Small acts of kindness can help rebuild a community. Many shelters and relief organizations rely on volunteers and donations during disasters.

A strong storm preparedness plan ensures you’re ready to protect your family and home when severe weather strikes. If you or a loved one ever need emergency care after severe weather, Physicians Premier is here to help. Find your nearest location here and get the care you need, when you need it most.

Sources:

“Tornado Safety,” National Weather Service, https://www.weather.gov/safety/tornado-prepare
“Make A Plan,” Ready.Gov, https://www.ready.gov/plan
“Tornadoes,” Ready.Gov, https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes
“Build A Kit,” Ready.Gov, https://www.ready.gov/kit
“Five Steps to a More Disaster-Resilient Home,” FEMA, https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20240613/five-steps-more-disaster-resilient-home
“Safety Guidelines: During a Tornado,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/tornadoes/safety/stay-safe-during-a-tornado-safety.html
“Tornado Safety,” American Red Cross, https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/tornado.html
“FCC/FEMA Emergency Communications Tips,” Federal Communications Commission, https://www.fcc.gov/emergency