Tornadoes can strike anywhere at any time, but certain areas are more vulnerable to tornadoes. The Great Plains in the central part of the country has the most tornadoes. Southern states are most likely to have a tornado between March and May, while northern states are more susceptible in the summer. Most tornadoes occur before 9 p.m. Although tornadoes are more likely to occur during the day, remember that tornadoes can strike during other times, too. Be extra cautious and alert during peak tornado season.
Be aware of your local weather conditions so you can be prepared for tornadic weather. If the weatherman reports jet streams in which a cold front and warm front collide in your area, tornadoes may occur. If he mentions nearby supercells, it is possible tornadoes will occur in your area. During the day, if you notice the sky is dark or it has a yellow or green tint, a strong storm is on its way. You may also spot a funnel cloud that is cone-shaped, with a tail that indicates a tornado is forming. If you notice any of these signs, you should head indoors immediately. Stay up to date with weather conditions by watching your local weather station or listening to a weather radio.
The safest location for you to be during a tornado is underground in a shelter or basement. If you don't have an underground area, head to a room that is in the middle of the house that does not have any windows, such as a closet or hallway. If you are outside during the tornado and there's no available shelter, lie down in a ditch or ravine. Avoid getting under a bridge because bridges are unsafe during a tornado.
If you are at school during a tornado, listen to your teacher and school administrators. Every school is required to have disaster plans in place, so follow instructions carefully. You will probably be led to an interior hallway and instructed to sit down and place your hands over your head.
Tornadoes cause a lot of damage and toss glass and other dangerous materials in the air. For this reason, it's important to cover your head in case a tornado disrupts your environment. Place a small mattress or sleeping bag over your head while you are under the threat of a tornado.
Help your family prepare a disaster plan in case of a tornado. Every member of the family should know where to go, how to cover his head and how to monitor weather conditions. Be sure that you wait for a clear signal before you leave your safe spot. Often, there is a calm and quiet that may make you think that it is safe to exit, but a tornado may come after the calm. Help your family pack an emergency backpack full of clothes, batteries, flashlights, medicine and other supplies that you keep in your safe spot. Practice your plan with a tornado drill at least once a year.