Recently there have been many tornado watches and warnings around the London area, but do you know what to do in a situation where a tornado is involved?
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Darin Dees is the Disaster Management Coordinator in the London area with the Canadian Red Cross, and he says that people may not know what the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning are.
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“A tornado watch means that a tornado is possible in our area, and so you’re basically supposed to stay alert and watch for more information. But, a tornado warning is much more severe, it means that a tornado has already occurred or will occur soon, and you should consider evacuating if you’re advised to do so.”
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Knowing what to do in a severe weather watch, especially a tornado, is crucial when it comes to protecting yourself, your family, or even your pets. Everyone is going to be in a different spot during a tornado, so knowing what to do in all situations is important. Dees says if you’re outside, try and get inside of a building to take cover. If you can’t get inside of a building, lie in a low spot, for example, a ditch. If you have a vehicle, Dees explains what you can do.
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“If you’re outside, not near a building, one option is to get in a vehicle and put on a seat belt.”
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Dees also suggests driving in a 90 degree angle to avoid tornadoes if they are coming towards you.
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Knowing what to do when you are inside is just as important. Just because you are indoors, does not mean you are protected from a tornado. Dees explains what you should do.
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“The lower you can get, the better. The basement is definitely the prefered choice if you have a basement. If you don’t have a basement, any interior hall, away from windows in particular is the best choice.”
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In the case of a tornado, if you are unsure if one is coming, Darin Dees gives examples of what you can spot that may indicate a tornado is coming:
- dark, often green, orange-gray skies
- large hail
- dark, low-lying, funnel shaped clouds
- roaring noises
If these examples are something you have noticed, Dees suggests taking cover immediately.
If you are affected by a tornado, you can call the Red Cross for assistance. Or you can download the Red Cross’ app called “Be Ready” that gives you notifications and information on disasters in your area.
