Tornado warning facts for kids
A tornado warning is an alert that means a tornado or a funnel cloud has been spotted nearby. When you hear a tornado warning, it's very important to take cover right away to stay safe. Often, loud tornado sirens will sound in the area to let everyone know that a tornado has been seen.
Tornado warnings are a serious alert. They are a higher level of danger than a Tornado watch, which means conditions are right for tornadoes to form. There is an even more serious level called a tornado emergency, which means a large and dangerous tornado is directly threatening a populated area.
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What is a Tornado Warning?
A tornado warning is issued by weather experts, like those at the National Weather Service in the United States. They issue a warning when a tornado has been seen by people on the ground or detected by Doppler weather radar. This means a real threat is happening right now.
Why are Warnings Important?
Warnings give people time to find a safe place. Tornadoes can be very powerful and cause a lot of damage very quickly. Knowing a warning is in effect helps everyone in the area protect themselves and their families.
How Warnings are Issued
When a tornado is spotted, weather agencies send out alerts in many ways. You might hear loud sirens, get messages on your phone, or see alerts on TV and radio. These alerts tell you exactly which areas are in danger.
Tornado Safety Tips
When a tornado warning is issued for your area, it's important to know what to do to stay safe.
Finding Shelter
- Go to a basement or storm cellar: These are the safest places because they are underground.
- If no basement, go to an interior room: Choose a small room on the lowest floor of your home, away from windows. A bathroom or closet can work well.
- Get under something sturdy: Like a heavy table or desk, to protect yourself from falling debris.
- Cover your head: Use your arms, a pillow, or a helmet to protect your head.
What to Avoid
- Stay away from windows: Flying glass is very dangerous during a tornado.
- Do not stay in a mobile home or vehicle: These offer very little protection and can be easily overturned. Seek a stronger building or a designated storm shelter.
- Do not try to outrun a tornado in a car: If you are driving, get out of your car and find a ditch or sturdy building to lie flat in.
Understanding Tornado Alerts
It's helpful to know the difference between a tornado watch, a tornado warning, and a tornado emergency.
Tornado Watch
A tornado watch means that conditions are right for tornadoes to form in or near your area. This usually covers a larger region and lasts for several hours. During a watch, you should:
- Stay informed about the weather.
- Have a plan for where to go if a warning is issued.
- Know where your safe spot is.
Tornado Warning
A tornado warning means a tornado has been seen or is about to happen. This is a serious alert for a specific area and means you need to take action immediately.
Tornado Emergency
A tornado emergency is the highest level of alert. It means a large, violent tornado is confirmed and is directly threatening a populated area. This alert is rare and means there is an extreme threat to life and property.
Images for kids
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F5 tornado near Elie, Manitoba on June 22, 2007
See also
In Spanish: Alerta de tornado para niños
