A few months ago we discussed building a Family Emergency Binder and a Family Emergency Plan. Then, a few weeks ago, I wrote about what to do in case of power outages , wildfires, and heatwaves. Those posts discuss about how to protect your family from disasters and how to rebuild your life after an emergency. But now that we’re in midsummer, the heatwaves haven’t let up and the tornadoes are still a threat.
Tornadoes can form quickly and without much warning. A few minutes of preparation now can make all the difference when severe weather strikes. This post includes a quick-and-dirty checklist with essential actions for you to take before, during, and after a tornado. This post also includes a list of resources (with web links) so you can customize your plan for your specific place in the world.
🔗 How to Prepare for and Deal with Tornadoes
The Basics: What Is a Tornado?
A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that stretches from the base of a thunderstorm down to the ground. It’s like a violently spinning funnel made of wind. It can be invisible until it picks up dust, debris, or condensation from the storm. Tornadoes form when warm, moist air near the ground meets cooler, drier air above, creating instability. If strong winds at different altitudes blow in different directions or at different speeds (called wind shear), the atmosphere can start to spin. Powerful thunderstorms can tilt this rotation upright, creating the signature funnel. Tornado intensity is measured on the Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale, which runs from EF0 (minor damage) to EF5 (catastrophic destruction).
Why they’re dangerous:
- Wind speeds can exceed 200+ mph in extreme cases.
- They can destroy buildings, uproot trees, toss cars, and hurl dangerous debris.
- They form quickly, sometimes with only minutes of warning.
Where they happen:
While most common in the U.S. (especially in “Tornado Alley” and the Southeast), tornadoes can occur on every continent except Antarctica.
Before a Tornado: How to Prepare
Know the Risk
- Check if you live in a tornado-prone area (especially in “Tornado Alley” or the Southeast U.S.).
- Learn your community’s warning systems (sirens, text alerts, NOAA Weather Radio).
Create a Plan
- Identify your safe shelter location:
- A basement or storm cellar is best.
- If you don’t have an underground space, or a dedicated tornado-proof closet (and don’t feel bad if you don’t because most of us don’t), choose a small interior room on the lowest floor (closet, bathroom) with no windows.
- Make an emergency contact plan for family members.
Build Your Emergency Kit
- Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio.
- Flashlight & extra batteries.
- First-aid kit.
- Non-perishable food & water (at least 3 days per person).
- Sturdy shoes.
- Personal documents (IDs, insurance, medical records) in a waterproof bag.
- Medications, baby supplies, and pet essentials.
Prepare Your Home
- Remove loose items from your yard (lawn furniture, grills, etc.).
- Reinforce windows and doors if possible.
- Keep your car fueled in case evacuation is needed.
During a Tornado
- Get to your safe space immediately when a Tornado Warning is issued.
- Protect your head and neck (use helmets, blankets, or pillows).
- Stay away from windows and outside walls.
- If outside and unable to find shelter:
- Lie flat in a low spot and cover your head. (flying debris is a huge danger)
- Avoid seeking shelter under bridges.
After a Tornado
- Stay alert for secondary hazards (downed power lines, gas leaks).
- Check on neighbors, especially elderly or disabled individuals.
- Use text messages instead of calls to reduce network congestion.
- Listen to local authorities for updates and only return home if it’s safe.
Trusted Tornado Preparedness Resources
Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) – Tips on protecting your home from tornado damage.
National Weather Service (NWS) Tornado Safety – Detailed safety tips, preparedness checklists, and how to read tornado alerts.
NOAA Weather Radio – Info on getting real-time weather warnings.
FEMA Tornado Safety Tips – Federal Emergency Management Agency’s step-by-step preparedness guide.
American Red Cross – Tornado Safety – Tips for before, during, and after tornadoes, plus disaster recovery info.
CDC Tornado Preparedness – Safety tips and health considerations during tornado response.
Storm Prediction Center (SPC) – Daily severe weather outlooks and tornado threat levels.
