(509) 327-1658

Tornado Disaster Preparedness

While rare, it is not unheard of to have tornadoes threatening our region. The Pacific Northwest can see one to three tornadoes, on average, each year.

Before a tornado

  • Prepare an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
  • Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television newscasts.
  • Heed instructions given by local emergency management officials.
  • Be alert to changing weather conditions and watch for approaching storms.

Danger signs include:

  • Dark, often greenish sky
  • Large hail
  • A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
  • Loud roar, similar to a freight train
  • If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately

If you are inside during a tornado

  • Go to a windowless interior room on the lowest level of the building, preferably a basement or storm cellar. If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a smaller inner room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet.
  • Get away from the windows.
  • Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they tend to attract debris.
  • Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench, table or desk and hold on to it.
  • Use your arms to protect your head and neck.
  • If you are in a mobile home, get out and find shelter elsewhere.

If you are outside during a tornado

  • If possible, get inside a building.
  • If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a low-lying area or crouch near a strong building.
  • Watch for flood waters which may fill ditches and other low-lying areas.
  • Use your arms to protect your head and neck from flying debris.

If you are in a car during a tornado:

  • Never try to drive faster than a tornado in a car or truck. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car or truck and toss it through the air.
  • When it is safe to pull over, get out of your car as soon as possible and take shelter in a nearby building.
  • If there are no buildings nearby, get out of your car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle. Be aware of the potential for flooding and watch for flying debris.