On average, 1200 tornadoes occur across the United States yearly.
Tornadoes have occurred in all 50 states and in every month of the year.
Tornado Warning: Means TAKE ACTION! A Tornado IS Expected.
- Take shelter indoors immediately.
- If driving, find the nearest shelter.
- Check forecast updates.
Tornado Watch: Means BE PREPARED. A Tornado IS Possible.
- Plan where to take shelter if needed.
- Have a way to get tornado warnings and updates.
- Stay weather-ready.
Check out the videos below for information about what to do before, during, and after a tornado strikes.
Also, today is tornado drill day, so it's a great time to test out your plans. Don't have a plan? Get one here.
Here is the time table for the drills:
1:00 p.m. NWS issues a simulated tornado watch
1:45 p.m. NWS issues a simulated tornado warning
2:00 p.m. NWS issues an “End of Test” message
6:45 p.m. NWS issues 2nd simulated tornado warning
7:00 p.m. NWS issues 2nd “End of Test” message
Getting Weather Ready: Before a Tornado (Video)
Getting Weather Ready: During a Tornado (Video)
Getting Weather Ready: After a Tornado (Video)