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 over a 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:

·         A dark, often greenish sky.

·         Large hail.

·          A large, dark rotating cloud (funnel-shaped).

·         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