Tornado Warning

A tornado warning is an urgent weather alert issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar, posing an imminent threat to life and property. It’s a step beyond a tornado watch, which means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop in a defined area.

Difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning

Understanding the difference between a watch and a warning is crucial. A tornado watch means be prepared. Atmospheric conditions are conducive to tornado formation within the watch area. This is the time to review your safety plan, monitor weather updates, and ensure you have a way to receive alerts. A tornado warning means take action! A tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar, and you should seek immediate shelter.

What triggers a Tornado Warning?

The NWS issues a tornado warning based on two primary indicators:

• Visual Confirmation: A trained spotter (law enforcement, emergency personnel, or storm chaser) reports seeing a tornado. This is the most direct and definitive trigger.
• Radar Indication: Doppler radar detects a “hook echo,” a characteristic shape associated with rotating thunderstorms and potential tornado formation. Radar can also detect debris fields lofted into the air by a tornado, further confirming its presence.

What to do when a Tornado Warning is Issued

Your immediate response to a tornado warning could save your life. Here’s a breakdown of recommended actions:

• Seek Shelter Immediately: The safest place to be is underground. If you have a basement, go there immediately. If not, find an interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building, away from windows.
• Protect Yourself: Cover your head and neck with your arms or any available padding (blanket, pillows).
• Avoid Windows and Doors: These are the weakest points of a building during a tornado.
• Mobile Homes are Extremely Vulnerable: Seek shelter in a sturdy building or a designated community shelter. Do not stay in a mobile home during a tornado warning.
• In a Vehicle: Abandon your vehicle and seek shelter in a sturdy building. If no sturdy shelter is available, lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area, covering your head.

How to Receive Tornado Warnings

Multiple avenues exist for receiving tornado warnings:

• NOAA Weather Radio: A reliable source of official weather information from the NWS.
• Local Television and Radio: Many stations interrupt programming to broadcast weather warnings.
• Smartphone Apps: Numerous weather apps provide real-time alerts based on your location. Ensure your app is configured to send push notifications for severe weather warnings.
• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): These are text-like messages sent to mobile phones during critical emergencies, including tornado warnings. They are location-based, targeting devices in the affected area.

Knowing what to do during a tornado warning is critical for your safety and the safety of those around you. Take tornado warnings seriously, have a plan, and stay informed.