What Does "Tornado Warning" Mean?

In light of yesterday’s tornado warning, I want to remind everyone exactly what that means. It is not to be confused with a tornado watch.

A tornado warning means that a tornado may be imminent. It can be issued after either a tornado or funnel cloud has already been spotted, or if there are radar indications that a tornado may be possible.

During a tornado warning, you should seek shelter immediately. The safest place to be during a tornado is in a basement. If no basement is available, seek shelter on the lowest floor in a hallway or closet. Use blankets or pillows to cover your body and always stay away from windows.

Evacuate mobile homes and vehicles immediately. Do not use highway overpasses as shelters. If no shelter is available, lie flat in the nearest ditch or other low spot and cover your head with your hands.

Do not wait to hear or see this tornado before you take action. Tornadoes that form at night and those that are rain wrapped may not be visible.

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