Tornadoes

Updated 8/4/25

Before a Tornado

  • Familiarize yourself with tornado procedures and understand where to go for shelter- lowest level, interior room, away from windows
  • Know the difference between a tornado watch (conditions are ideal for tornadoes to form) and a tornado warning (a tornado has been spotted in the area)

Monitor for AeroElerts and notifications from the National Weather Service

During a Tornado

If in the office

  • Go to an inside hallway or office at the lowest level possible away from all windows. Do not enter the elevators.
  • Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways, or shopping malls.
  • Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it.
  • Use arms to protect head and neck.

If outdoors

  • If possible, get inside a building.
  • If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building.
  • Be aware of the potential for flooding.
  • Use arms to protect head and neck.

If in a car

  • Never try to out drive a tornado in a vehicle. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift a car or truck and toss it through the air.
  • Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building.
  • If there is no time to get indoors, get out the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle.
  • Do not take shelter in an overpass, this is a myth. Overpasses can create a wind tunnel effect, increasing the speed of winds and debris. If the tornado is strong enough, the bridge may even collapse.
  • Be aware of the potential for flooding.

After the Tornado

  • Help injured or trapped persons only if you are confident in your ability and it is safe to do so.
  • Do not attempt to move large debris. You can injure yourself and do not know if that piece of debris is preventing other pieces from falling.
  • Do not move the seriously injured unless they are in immediate danger.
  • Call 911 or SCC if you need immediate assistance.
  • Monitor information from Aerospace and local authorities.
  • Stay out of damaged areas.
  • Leave the building if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
  • Phone lines are often busy after a disaster. Avoid unnecessary phone calls, use text and other instant messaging instead.