Tornado Ready

Tornadoes can appear with little to no warning, and can cause catastrophic damage in a matter of minutes.

Tornadoes are often the byproduct of large thunderstorms and even hurricanes.
They frequently occur during the months of April, May, and June, but have been known to appear in later months as well.

Ehanced Fujita Scale

EF-0 (65-85 mph) Light damage.
Peels surface off some roofs; some damage to gutters or siding; branches broken off trees; shallow-rooted trees pushed over.
EF-1 (86-110 mph) Moderate damage.
Roofs severely stripped; mobile homes overturned or badly damaged; loss of exterior doors; windows and other glass broken.
EF-2 (111-135 mph) Considerable damage.
Roofs torn off well-constructed houses; foundations of frame homes shifted; mobile homes completely destroyed; large trees snapped or uprooted; light-object missiles generated; cars lifted off ground.
EF-3 (136-165 mph) Severe damage.
Entire stories of well-constructed houses destroyed; severe damage to large buildings; trees debarked; heavy cars lifted off the ground and/or thrown.
EF-4 (166-200 mph) Devastating damage.
Whole frame houses completely leveled; cars thrown and small missiles generated.
EF-5 (>200 mph) Incredible damage.
Strong frame houses leveled off foundations; automobile-sized missiles fly through the air.

Determine in advance where you will take refuge in the event of a tornado.
Since underground shelters are uncommon on the Island, take shelter in an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of a building.

Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
Avoid auditoriums, cafeterias, and gymnasiums that have wide span roofs.
DO NOT stay inside a trailer, or mobile home! If possible, move to a building with a strong foundation.
DO NOT get under an overpass or bridge, as winds can blow debris up into the gap or even collapse the bridge itself.

If you are outside and there is not a safe shelter nearby:

Go to your vehicle, buckle your seat belt and drive to the closest sturdy shelter.
If conditions worsen and your vehicle is being hit by debris, pull over and park. Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows; cover your head with your hands and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible.
If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, leave your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.
Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.

Assess your surroundings and determine if there are any injuries.
Be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Additional injuries can occur from walking through debris, downed power lines, or fire.
Protect yourself and your family and call 911 for assistance.