NEBRASKA HAZARDS

TORNADO PREPAREDNESS

Tornadoes can occur at any time of year, but they are most common in Nebraska during the spring and early summer. Be prepared to take shelter whenever severe weather is possible.

Tornado Watch vs. Warning

Tornado Watch — Be Prepared: Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review your emergency plan, check your supplies, and know where you will take shelter.

Tornado Warning — Take Action: A tornado has been sighted or detected by radar. Take shelter immediately.

Before a Tornado

  • Know where you will shelter at home, work, school, and other locations.
  • Create an emergency kit and family communication plan.
  • Monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local news for severe weather updates.
  • Know the signs of a possible tornado, including dark or rotating clouds, large hail, and a loud roaring sound.

During a Tornado

  • At Home or in a Building
    • Go to a basement, storm shelter, or safe room.
    • If no basement is available, go to a small, interior room on the lowest floor.
    • Stay away from windows and exterior doors.
    • Protect your head and neck from flying debris with your hands, blankets, pillows, or a helmet.
  • In a Mobile Home
    • Leave the mobile home and move to a sturdy building or designated storm shelter before severe weather arrives.
    • Do not wait for a tornado warning.
  • In a Vehicle or Outdoors
    • Seek shelter in a sturdy building whenever possible.
    • If no shelter is available, move to a low-lying area such as a ditch, lie flat, and cover your head and neck.
    • Stay away from overpasses, which do not provide adequate protection.
    • Never attempt to outrun a tornado if doing so puts you at greater risk.

After a Tornado

  • Check yourself and others for injuries and seek medical attention when needed.
  • Stay away from damaged buildings and debris.
  • Avoid downed power lines and report them to local officials or the utility company.
  • Use flashlights instead of candles.
  • Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or other fuel-burning equipment inside a home, garage, camper, or other enclosed space due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Follow instructions from local emergency officials and do not enter restricted or damaged areas.