Driving with the windows down and music playing is one of the simple joys of the road. But what happens when the sky turns a menacing shade of green and the weather alerts start blaring? Being in a vehicle is one of the most dangerous places you can be during a tornado. Knowing what to do can make all the difference.
Here’s a practical guide to help you stay safe if you find yourself in your car with a tornado approaching.
Your Car Is Not a Safe Place
Let’s get the most important point out of the way first: a car offers almost no protection from a tornado. Even a weak tornado can lift a vehicle, roll it, and turn it into a tumbling hazard. The high winds can also shatter windows and turn loose objects inside your car into dangerous projectiles. Your primary goal is to get out of the vehicle and into a sturdy shelter as quickly and safely as possible.
Step 1: Assess the Situation and Drive to Shelter
If you see a tornado in the distance or receive a tornado warning, your first action should be to find the nearest substantial building.
- Identify the Tornado’s Movement: Try to determine which way the tornado is moving. If it appears to be stationary or getting larger, it might be heading directly toward you.
- Drive to the Nearest Sturdy Building: Look for a permanent, well-constructed building like a gas station, convenience store, restaurant, or walk-in cooler at a store. Public shelters, basements, or storm cellars are ideal.
- Move at a Right Angle: If you can determine the tornado’s path and traffic allows, drive at a right angle to its direction of movement. For example, if the tornado is moving east, you should drive north or south to get out of its way.
Step 2: Abandon Your Vehicle for Better Cover
If you can’t drive to a sturdy shelter, you need to find the next best option. This often means leaving your car behind.
- Pull Over and Park: Get your vehicle as far off the road as possible to avoid obstructing traffic or emergency responders.
- Do Not Park Under an Overpass or Bridge: This is a common and dangerous mistake. An overpass acts like a wind tunnel, concentrating the tornado’s winds and debris. The wind speed can actually be higher under a bridge, making it an incredibly hazardous spot.
- Find a Ditch or Low-Lying Area: If you are in an open area with no buildings nearby, your best option is to find a ditch, ravine, or other low-lying area.
Step 3: Get Down and Protect Yourself
Once you’ve found the lowest spot available, your final actions are crucial for protection.
- Lie Flat and Cover Your Head: Get as low as you can, lie flat on your stomach, and use your arms and hands to cover the back of your head and neck. This is your body’s most vulnerable area.
- Stay Away from Your Car: Put as much distance between yourself and your vehicle as you can. This prevents the car from rolling or being thrown on top of you.
- Be Aware of Debris and Flooding: Flying debris is the greatest danger in a tornado. Lying low reduces your exposure. Also, be mindful that low-lying areas can quickly fill with water during heavy rain, so watch for flash flooding.
Key Takeaways for Tornado Safety on the Road
- Your car is not safe. Your first priority is to get to a sturdy building.
- Drive to shelter if possible. Find the nearest well-built structure.
- Avoid overpasses. They are not safe and can increase your risk.
- Abandon your vehicle if you can’t find shelter.
- Lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area. Cover your head and neck with your arms.
Staying calm and thinking clearly is your greatest asset in a dangerous weather situation. By understanding the risks and knowing these simple steps, you can significantly improve your chances of staying safe when a tornado strikes.