Tornado Awareness
Tornadoes are rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. They can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create flying debris.
A tornado can happen at any time and anywhere and bring intense winds, over 200 mph.
Emergency Alerts
There is a lot of information associated with the weather, so it is important that you know how to interpret the forecast and trust the individual or organization providing the information.
There are several ways to get severe weather information:
NOAA Weather Radio - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association provides a nationwide network of radio stations that broadcast continuous weather information from the nearest National Weather Service office based on your physical location. We encourage everyone to have a weather radio in their home or at their office desk. Remember to change the batteries regularly
CodeRed Alerts - The South Carolina Emergency Management Division and local emergency managers use CodeRed alerts to send residents important public safety information about local incidents. Learn more and Sign Up for CodeRed Alerts
Social Media - Social media is a great tool to receive real-time information concerning emergency incidents. We suggest you follow or like trustworthy social media content from organizations or personalities such as local meteorologists, federal weather services, law enforcement officers or agencies, and state emergency management organizations.
Mobile Applications - There are several applications you can install on your device that will provide real-time alerts such as:
South Carolina Emergency Manager - This is the official mobile app for SCEMD. The app allows users to build personal emergency plans, keep track of supplies and stay connected during an emergency. Download the app for your iOS or Android device today.
Traffic Conditions from SCDOT - The South Carolina Department of Transportation mobile app can provide users with the latest information concerning traffic conditions. Download the app for your iOS or Android device today
American Red Cross Shelter View - The American Red Cross opens temporary shelters for individuals displaced by hurricanes. The mobile app provides a list and location information for area shelters. Download the app for your iOS device today. Although the app is not available for Android devices, you can still view available shelters online.
Understand Forecast Information
Understanding your local or national weather forecast is essential to your response to the event. For example, knowing the difference between a Watch and a Warning.
Seek Shelter
Identifying areas within your home or work early can better prepare you for encountering tornadoes. The best protection is a small, interior, windowless room or hallway on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
Protect yourself by covering your head or neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around the top of you.
If you are in your vehicle during a tornado, follow the guidelines below to keep you and your family safe.
If the tornado is visible, far away, and the traffic is light, you may be able to drive out of its path.
If you are caught by extreme winds or flying debris, park the car as quickly and safely as possible — out of traffic lanes.
Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows; cover your head with your hands.
If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, leave your car and lie in the area, covering your head with your hands.
Avoid seeking shelter under bridges, which can create deadly traffic hazards while offering little protection against flying debris.
Following the Tornado
Plan for a long-term stay at home or consider sheltering in place. Make sure to follow information from trusted sources, such as first responders, emergency managers, or emergency broadcast systems. Avoid any fallen debris, power lines, or broken utility lines.