Every part of the continental United States is at risk for tornados. These violent storms can produce winds of up to 300 mph and leave damage trails of 1 mile wide and 50 miles long.
BE prepared
Before a tornado, there are several things you can do to protect yourself and your family:
· Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or other broadcast news for the latest information.
· Look for approaching storms on the horizon.
· Be aware of the danger signs:
1. A dark, often greenish sky
2. Large hail
3. A large, dark rotating cloud (funnel-shaped)
4. A loud roar, similar to a freight train
· Locate the safest place to take shelter.
BE informed
If you are inside a vehicle, trailer or mobile home:
· Get out and go to the lowest floor of a nearby building or storm shelter.
· Do not stay in a mobile home. They offer little protection, even when tied down.
If you are outside with no shelter:
· Lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression.
· Do not go under an overpass or bridge.
· Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas.
· Watch for flying debris.
BE curious
For more information on tornado preparedness, visit:
· Just in Case Arizona
· Ready.gov
· Centers for Disease Control and Prevention