Learn more about tornadoes and how to stay safe!
Learn More about Tornadoes
- Webweather for Kids: Tornadoes
- Weather Wiz Kids: Tornadoes
- NOAA: Tornadoes
- Windows to the Universe: Tornadoes
- FEMA Kids: Tornadoes
- Kids’ Crossing: Look Out for Dangerous Weather!”
- The Weather Channel Kids: Severe Weather Safety
A mature tornado in Texas. Photo courtesy of National Severe Storms Laboratory.
During a Tornado: Staying Safe
If you hear that a tornado warning is in effect for your community, a tornado has been spotted and is very close by. Follow your emergency plan immediately.
If you are inside:
- Go into the basement or storm shelter and hide under a sturdy piece of furniture or mattress. Cover your head with your arms.
- If you don’t have a basement, choose a small room on the lowest floor, and as close to the center of your home as possible. The room should be away from windows – bathrooms or closets are good choices. Put as many walls as possible between you and the tornado.
If you are outside:
- Head for lowest level of a nearby building.
- If there is no building nearby, protect yourself by lying flat on the ground in a low area, and cover your head with your arms and hands.
- Do not seek shelter in a car or under a highway overpass or bridge – these areas are not safe.
The oldest known photograph of a tornado, 1884. This tornado has three funnel clouds. Photo courtesy of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Before a Tornado: Preparing
- Learn the Warning Signs
- Dark, often greenish sky
- Wall cloud (a cloud that lowers below the base of the thundercloud)
- Large hail
- Loud roar; similar to a freight train
- Some tornadoes have a visible funnel shape extending from the cloud. Others may not show a funnel, but you may see flying debris.
- Some tornadoes are clearly visible while others are obscured by rain or nearby low-hanging clouds.
- Make an emergency plan with your family and teachers
- Decide on a safe room at home and school where everyone can gather in case of a tornado watch or warning
- Prepare an emergency supply kit (here is a recommended list)
- Find out how your community will warn you if a severe thunderstorm or tornado occurs
- If you hear that a tornado watch is in effect for your community
- Alert others and follow the advice of your parents and teachers
- Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or your local TV or radio meteorologist
- Stay alert and prepare as though a tornado could be coming at any time
Wall cloud with lightning. Photo courtesy of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
After a Tornado: Cleaning Up
- Listen to your local TV or radio station or NOAA Weather Radio for updates about the storm, its damage and safety instructions
- Help yourself first, then others. Go to an adult if there is one nearby.
- If you left your home, listen to instructions from local authorities. Only return when they say it is safe.
- Stay away from fallen power lines, broken gas lines and damaged buildings
- Check for damage in the building you are in to make sure it is not in danger of collapsing. Use a flashlight from your emergency kit if you need light – never use candles.
A sign posted by a child in Greensburg, Kansas, reminding the town to “Persevere” after a devastating tornado. Photo by Ann Posegate.