NORFOLK, Va. — The potential for severe storms comes with the potential for tornado warnings and watches. The National Weather Service sends out alerts when there is a tornado watch or warning in your area. It's important to prepare to stay safe and minimize impacts.
Ahead of the storm, check the forecast to see if you're at risk for a tornado. Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place and related information and make sure you practice that plan. Also, consider having your safe room reinforced.
If you're indoors during a tornado, the best next step is to go to the lowest level of your home. That may be a basement, a bathroom, or a closet. Stay away from the windows and cover yourself. If you're on a high rise, find an interior stairwell.
If you're outside, the best thing to do is try and find any nearby shelter. You'll want to get away from any debris the tornado could pick up.
Next, lie flat, face down on the ground and in a ditch if you can. Always protect the back of your head and neck with your arms.
If you're in a car and there's a building or basement nearby, seek shelter there. If that's not an option, you'll want to park your car away from other cars.
Stay in the car with your seatbelt on, put your head down below the windows and cover your head and neck. Only leave your car if you can safely get to a secure building or get to a level noticeably lower than the road.