Storm Preparation
Find out what you can do before the storm:
- Develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, school, and when outdoors.
- Have a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery back-up to receive warnings.
- Have frequent drills.
- If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible.
- Know the county / parish in which you live, and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins.
- Listen to radio and television for information.
Storm Warning Steps
If a warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches:
- Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately.
- Get out of automobiles.
- If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
- In a home or building, move to a predesignated shelter, such as a basement.
- Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned.
- Stay away from windows.
Next Step
Find out what to gather as you prepare for a tornado. This information is courtesy of the NOAA.