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Know the risks before you go
A tornado, also called a 'twister', is a spinning air funnel between the ground and a thundercloud.
Most are measured on the Fujita Scale. F1 is low intensity, and F5 is extreme.
Do not chase tornadoes. Tornadoes are unpredictable. It's very difficult for experts to determine their path. They change direction quickly and often with no warning.
If you're going somewhere with tornadoes, know the signs. Tornados can happen unexpectedly. Watch for:
- a rotating funnel-shaped cloud at the rear base of a thundercloud, often behind a curtain of heavy rain or hail
- an approaching debris cloud
- a loud roaring or whistling sound.
Learn more about tornado safety, and see US tornado alerts (US National Weather Service).
Where and when tornadoes can happen
Tornadoes are most common in the United States of America (USA). Most occur in the northern parts of 'Tornado Alley'. This stretches from northern Texas to Oklahoma, Kansas, eastern Colorado and Nebraska.
Other destinations that commonly experience strong tornadoes are:
Before you go, check if and when your destination has tornadoes. Read the travel advice for where you're going. If tornadoes are a common risk, we'll mention it in the 'Safety' section under 'Extreme weather and natural disasters'.
What to do when there's a tornado
Read our advice about what to do if there's a natural disaster. Follow that advice, as well as the following.
As the tornado approaches
Talk to your hotel manager, tour guide or local authorities. Listen to the radio, follow official channels on social media and watch the news on TV or online.
Be informed
- Find out where the tornado is and where it's going. Understand that paths are hard to predict. Even if experts think it will miss your location, you may still be at risk.
- Find out how powerful it's expected to be. It may start to weaken on the way or get stronger.
- Find out if there is a basement or purpose-built tornado shelter in or near your accommodation.
- Find out where your nearest evacuation shelter is. If you're evacuating to a shelter, do it early. It's not safe to go outside once the storm hits.
Be prepared
- Prepare your emergency supply kit and keep it close. Charge your devices and battery packs.
- Find items that you can use to protect you from flying debris, such as thick blankets or mattresses.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities on places on appropriate places to shelter.
- If you're sheltering in your accommodation, cover windows and turn off gas appliances.
During the tornado
- Don’t go outside. Even if it looks like it’s calmed down or passed.
- Take shelter. Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Keep low.
- Protect yourself. Use mattresses, blankets and other items to protect yourself and others. Cover your head and neck with your arms.
If you're in a car
- Don't try to outrun the tornado. Drive to the nearest solid shelter.
- If the tornado is close, leave your car and shelter in a low-lying area, such as a ditch.
- Don't go under an overpass or bridge for shelter. You're safer in a low, flat location.
After the tornado passes
- Stay safe. Stay where you are until you're sure the tornado has passed.
- Check for hazards. Some you'll need to avoid. Others you'll need to deal with quickly to prevent more danger. Stay clear of damaged buildings and structures, fallen power lines, glass and other debris.
- Treat injuries. Seek first aid, if necessary, before helping other injured or trapped people. If it's serious, you may need medical care.
- Check supplies. Especially clean water. Don't eat food or drink water that was exposed during the storm.
- Stay informed. Continue to listen to weather updates and follow all advice from the emergency services.
- Stay in contact. Contact family and friends to let them know you're safe if you can.
Find out who to contact if you need help.