Tornados

A tornado is a powerful rotating column of wind that can hurt people and damage property. Very large thunderstorms can create tornadoes. The sky is often green, yellow or black. Be aware of weather conditions and warnings.

Seek shelter immediately if a warning has been issued or you believe one could occur.

• Make a plan and practice it with your family. Have a safe room in your home where everyone gathers during a tornado such as the basement, storm cellar or interior room on the lowest floor with no windows
• Conduct a tornado drill to make sure everyone knows where to go if a tornado is coming
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage
• Receive instant weather alerts by downloading Environment Canada's WeatherCan mobile app
• Create a 72 hour emergency kit – don't forget your pets
• Make a plan and practice it with your family

Safety Tips

If you're indoors:

• The safest place to be is an underground shelter, basement or safe room
• If you don't have a basement, go to the centre of an interior room on the lowest level away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside
• Get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Use your arms to protect your head and neck
• Don't open windows

If you're outdoors:

• Don't wait until you see the tornado to get inside
• If you can't get inside, lie flat in a ditch and cover your head with your hands
• Don't go under an overpass or bridge. You're safer in a low, flat area

If you're in a mobile home:

• Go to the nearest sturdy building or shelter immediately. Mobile homes do not offer protection from tornadoes

Additional Resources

• Tornadoes - Emergency Management Ontario