Tornadoes: What you should know

Tornado season in Ohio peaks between April and July. Tornados have been known to happen all over Ohio however are most common to occur in areas that have flat grasslands, often times referred to as the "Great Plains." Tornado signals, signs and warnings come in different ways and it is good to have a plan and be able to take action if one strikes near you.

A tornado watch means that the weather conditions are typcial of a tornado. It also means that severe thunderstorms are most likely on the way (if not already happening) as well. However, a tornado warning means that one has been spotted and will occur soon. In that situation, you should take cover. Make a

plan in advance for tornadoes as they can strike at any time.

Here are a couple tips on how you can stay safe and prepare for a tornado:

• Have fresh batteries and a battery operated device ie; radio, tv so that you can listen to emergency information
• Keep an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, and medication
• Know where to take shelter in your home and stay away from windows.

If you happen to be driving during a tornado, NOAA and Red Cross suggest that you should buckle your seat belt, cover your face and head with a blanket if you have one, and shield yourself from the windshield. It is not recommended that you take shelter under an overpass or a ditch as you are leaving yourself vulnerable to debris.

For more resources about tornados and tornado safety:

HRSA EP Resources for CHCs

Tornado Watch vs Tornado Warning

www.ready.gov/tornadoes
www.weather.gov/safety/tornado
City of Dayton on Boil-Water advisory

To Get involved in Tornado relief, Contact:

• Direct Relief – Katie Lewis, klewis@directrelief.org, 805-879-4945 
• Americares - Director of Response, Brian Scheel, bscheel@americares.org