Tornadoes

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air in contact with the ground capable ofproducing trmendous damage. It appears as a rotating funne-shaped cloud, whichextends 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 shotlived 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 ANNOUCED, 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 imformation 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 casued by the tornado. You r nbest 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 not 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. Stayaway 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 abuilding, 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 shalter 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 possbility of rising water. You can also take cover under highway overpasses, but beware of the possibity of rising water. If you are walking or working outside, follow the same instructions.