Tornadoes
- What is it? It is a vortex or funnel of rotating wind that will extend from a thunderstorm to the ground below.
- How it happens? Cold and warm air mix to create an unstable atmosphere and then the wind changes and increases speed. The air goes from laying down to standing up right, so now an area of rotation has formed.
- What to do to prepare? Listen to local weather channels and radios, get familiar with community alert systems and shelters, have a family plan, and create a disaster kit.
- What to do when it strikes? Take shelter immediately! Don't be the one to get injured because you wanted to stay outside watch it! Get indoors if you are outside! Get to the lowest ground in your home, be in the innermost room of your home, and stay away from windows. Protect your neck and head. Try to put shoes on so when you can escape you don't injure your feet with debris.
- What to do after it occurs? Stay put until you are in the clear of the storm or storms. Get out of the damaged building. Stay away from downed power lines. Check on neighbors. Wait until help arrives. CERT will usually arrive immediately after a disaster when response resources are overwhelmed. Most of all you need to STAY CALM.