Tornado Safety

A tornado is a powerful spinning column of air that reaches from a storm cloud to the ground. Tornadoes can be very dangerous. Knowing what to do can save your life.

What to Do During a Tornado

Go to the lowest floor of your building, like a basement. If there is no basement, go to a small room in the middle of the house, like a bathroom or closet. Stay away from windows.

Cover your head with your arms or a pillow. Get under something sturdy if you can. Wait until the storm passes before going outside.

Tornado Warnings

A tornado watch means tornadoes are possible. A tornado warning means one has been spotted nearby. When you hear a warning, act fast.

Many towns have sirens that warn people about tornadoes. Your family should have a plan so everyone knows where to go.

Fun Facts

• The United States has more tornadoes than any other country in the world.
• Tornado Alley in the middle of the U.S. gets the most tornadoes.
• Most tornadoes last less than ten minutes.

Did You Know?

The fastest tornado winds ever recorded were over 300 miles per hour!