How to drive safe during a tornado alert

How to stay safe while driving during a tornado?

If you are in a vehicle during warning signs or even at the onset of a tornado, the measures to stay safe include:

• Head to a shelter. Look for sturdy buildings near your location; avoid traveling long distances if possible; seek underground shelter like a basement if available.
• Don’t try to outrun the tornado. The best decision you can make is to stop driving as soon as possible; drive perpendicular to its path until finding shelter.
• If you find yourself in an area where there are no buildings available, the best way to ensure your safety is to stop and park the vehicle. Fasten your seatbelt, crouch down in the car, and cover yourself with a blanket or coat.
• Avoid seeking shelter under an overpass or bridge, as these areas are exposed to higher wind speeds and more dangerous debris.

Consider identifying large, sturdy buildings along your regular routes where you could seek shelter if you’re in your car when the tornado arrives. After the tornado has passed, precautions continue. Avoid hazardous debris such as broken glass, nails, and other sharp objects. Always stay away from fallen power lines and do not enter buildings that have suffered severe damage as they could collapse. Try to remain calm and follow your emergency plan.