TORNADO WATCH: Tornadoes are possible - remain alert for approaching storms

TORNADO WARNING: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. If a warning is issued for the area and the sky becomes threatening, move to your pre-designated place of safety.

Facts:

• Tornadoes occasionally accompany tropical storms and hurricanes that move over land
  
• Tornadoes are most common to the right and ahead of the path of the storm center as it comes onshore
  
• Tornadoes may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up
  
• Two or more may occur at the same time.

Myths:

• Areas near rivers and lakes are safe from tornadoes - no place is safe from tornadoes
  
• Low pressure associated with tornadoes causes buildings to explode - violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause most structural damage
  
• Opening windows allows pressure to equalize and minimizes damage - open windows allow damaging winds inside.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Have a NOAA weather radio with a warning alarm tone and battery back-up to receive warnings.

At home: If a warning is issued, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold onto it. Stay away from windows, and protect your head and neck with your arms.

Outdoors: If possible, get inside a building. If not, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building. Protect you head and neck with your arms.

In a car or truck: Never try to out-drive a tornado in a car or truck. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car or truck and toss it through the air. Get out of the vehicle and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle.

In a mobile home: Tie-downs will not generally protect a mobile home against tornado wind gusts. Take shelter in a building with a strong foundation. If this is not available lie in a ditch or low-lying area a safe distance away from the unit. It is a good idea for mobile home communities to have a designated community shelter where residents can gather during a tornado warning.