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Tornadoes
A tornado is a violently rotating column of air in
contact with the ground capable of producing tremendous damage. It
appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, which extends to the ground
from the base of a thunderstorm. A tornado spins like a top and may
sound like the roaring of an airplane or locomotive. These short-lived
storms are the most violent of all atmospheric phenomena, and over a
small area, the most destructive.
As a General Rule, tornadoes move in an
easterly direction, but they can move any direction.
When a Tornado Watch Is Announced, this
means that tornadoes may be possible in or near the "watch" area. Keep
your radio or television set tuned to a local station for information
and advice from your local government and the National Weather Service.
When a Tornado Warning Is Issued. Take Shelter
Immediately.
The warning means that a tornado has actually been
sighted, or has been indicated by radar. You must take action to protect
yourself from the tornado and the debris caused by the tornado. Your
best protection is an underground shelter or a substantial steel-framed
or reinforced concrete building.
If You Are at Home, go to your basement if
you have one. Take cover under the basement stairs or under a sturdy
workbench or table. If your home has no basement, take cover in the
center part of the house, on the lowest floor in small rooms such as a
closet or bathroom, or under sturdy furniture. Stay away from windows to
avoid flying debris.
Do Not Remain in a Trailer or Mobile Home If a
Tornado Is Approaching. Take Cover Somewhere Else.
If You Are at Work in a building, go to an
interior hallway on the lowest floor, or to a designated shelter area.
Stay Away from Windows.
If You Are at School, follow the
instructions of school authorities. The designated shelter is usually
the interior hallway on the lowest floor. STAY OUT of structures
with wide, free-span roofs, such as auditoriums and gymnasiums.
Outside in Open Country, if you are driving,
get out of your car. Take cover and lie flat in the nearest depression,
such as a ditch but beware of the possibility of rising water. You can
also take cover under highway overpasses, but beware of the possibility
of rising water. If you are walking or working outside, follow the same
instructions.
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