The National Weather Service urges New Yorkers to be prepared when tornadoes threaten. While no place is completely safe during a tornado, taking the right precautions can significantly increase your chances of staying safe.
What should I do during a tornado warning?
A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by weather radar. If a warning is issued for your area, take shelter immediately.
The National Weather Service recommends:
What if I’m in a building away from home?
If you’re at work, school or another public building:
What if I live in a mobile or manufactured home?
Mobile and manufactured homes are not safe during a tornado, even if they are anchored.
If a tornado watch is issued, identify a nearby sturdy building or designated storm shelter where you can go if a warning is issued.
What if I’m driving?
Vehicles do not provide adequate protection from tornadoes.
If you can safely reach a sturdy building, do so immediately.
If that’s not possible:
If you can safely reach a low-lying area, leave your vehicle and lie flat, covering your head with your hands.
Do not seek shelter under bridges or highway overpasses.
What if I’m outside?
If you’re outdoors when a tornado approaches:
If you have a basement
A basement is generally the safest place during a tornado.
Tornado watch vs. tornado warning
Understanding the difference between a watch and a warning is critical.
Tornado watch: Conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. Review your emergency plan, monitor the weather and be prepared to take shelter.
Tornado warning: A tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. Take shelter immediately.
How common are tornadoes?
Tornadoes can occur in New York and across much of the United States, particularly during the spring and summer months. While most are relatively weak, stronger tornadoes can produce destructive winds, flying debris and life-threatening conditions.
The National Weather Service recommends having multiple ways to receive weather alerts, including Wireless Emergency Alerts on your smartphone, local television and radio stations, NOAA Weather Radio and trusted weather apps.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Tornado safety tips: What New Yorkers should do during a watch or warning
Reporting by New York Connect Team, USA Today Network / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By New York Connect Team, USA Today Network | USA TODAY Network
