Multiple counties are under a tornado watch until five in the morning on Monday.
The National Weather Service declared a tornado watch for Fayette, Lamar, Marion, Walker, and Winston counties at 11:07 PM on Sunday. The watch was in place until 5 AM on Monday.
What You Should Know About Tornado Watches and Warnings
Knowing the distinction between a tornado warning and a tornado watch might mean the difference between life and death. Here’s a quick summary:
Tornado Warning: Be Vigilant!
An early warning that the weather is conducive to tornado formation is called a tornado watch.
It’s a cue to go over emergency plans, make sure you have supplies, and locate your safe place.
It’s a serious warning, but it doesn’t necessarily imply a tornado is coming. If a tornado warning is issued or you think one is coming, be ready to take fast action.
Tornado watches are issued by the Storm Prediction Center, and they frequently span wide regions, such as many counties or even whole states.
Warning of Tornado: Act Now!
A tornado has been detected by weather radar or verified by qualified spotters when a tornado warning is issued.
This is the genuine deal—life and property are in imminent danger.
Take immediate action: Move to a basement or an internal chamber on the lowest floor, away from windows, and seek refuge in a strong building.
Locate the closest shelter if you’re outside, in a car, or in a mobile home, and shield yourself from falling debris.
The National Weather Service office in your area issues warnings, which are particular to the area where the tornado has been identified, usually a city or a small county.
The Significance of This
Being able to distinguish between these warnings can save lives. If a tornado is approaching, stay alert, make a plan, and take quick action.
Watch Out for Tornadoes
Keep an eye on the weather
Check the forecast frequently to determine whether severe storms are likely to hit your area.
Stay up to date on Tornado Watches and Warnings by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or local news.
Register for Alerts
Learn how to use the emergency alert system in your town.
While some regions rely on TV, radio, or smartphone alerts for severe weather warnings, others employ outdoor sirens.
Develop a Plan for Communication
Create an emergency plan for your family that includes a meeting spot and vital contact details. If your house lacks a basement, choose a safe location nearby that you can get to quickly, such as a church or a relative’s home.
Select a Secure Shelter.
Select a secure area within your house, such as a storm cellar, basement, or a room on the lowest floor that is windowless.
Practice Your Strategy
Have your family practice tornado drills on a regular basis so that everyone is prepared for a genuine disaster.
Ensure that everyone in the family is aware of where to seek shelter, and if time permits, don’t forget about pets.
Protect Your House
For further security, think about strengthening your safe room.
Plans for strengthening interior rooms for safety are provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Be mindful of your neighbors.
Urge neighbors, friends, and family to get ready for severe weather.
To help with injuries during a storm, think about obtaining CPR training.
Keeping Safe During a Tornado: Quick Steps to Take
To protect yourself and minimize damage, you must take immediate action when a tornado is approaching. Observe the following National Weather Service guidelines:
Keep Up to Date
Stay tuned to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for real-time updates on tornado watches and warnings. If a Tornado Warning is issued for your region, seek shelter immediately in a basement, safe room, or an inner room with no windows. If time allows, bring your pets with you.
In the office or at school
Move swiftly and composedly to your assigned tornado shelter while adhering to tornado drill protocols.
Steer clear of expansive open areas such as auditoriums, gyms, and cafeterias.
Avoid windows.
When You’re Outside
Take quick refuge in a strong structure.
Keep in mind that tents, storage facilities, sheds, and mobile homes are not safe.
If time permits, proceed to a more secure building.
If you are in a car
Staying in your automobile during a storm is not safe. What to do is as follows:
Drive right away to the closest shelter if you can.
If you are unable to get to a secure area:
Cover your head, strap up, and remain in your vehicle.
Alternatively, get out of your car and shield your head while lying flat in a ditch or low-lying spot.
Last Words of Advice
When a tornado is imminent, prompt action and adherence to established safety protocols can make all the difference. Be vigilant, be careful, and be ready.
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