Hurricanes and tornadoes are two of the most violent and destructive weather events on Earth. Both bring intense winds, heavy rain, and the potential for catastrophic damage. While their formation and warning times differ—hurricanes offer more lead time, tornadoes often hit with little notice—the principles of preparedness and safety during both are vital to protect lives.
How to Prepare Before a Hurricane or Tornado
General Preparation for Both:
- Build an emergency kit: Include water (1 gallon per person/day for 3 days), non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, medications, hygiene supplies, and a whistle.
- Have a communication plan: Identify a contact outside the affected area and ensure all family members know how to reach them.
- Know local alerts and warning systems: Download weather apps and enable emergency alerts.
- Secure important documents: Keep digital and waterproof copies of IDs, insurance, and medical records.
- Prepare your home: Trim trees, reinforce windows, and clear outdoor items that could become projectiles.
- Read all the instructions recommended by the Ministry of Emergency Situations.
Hurricane-Specific Preparations:
- Install storm shutters or board up windows.
- Know your evacuation zone and plan routes to shelters or inland areas.
- Refuel your car and prepare to leave 24–48 hours before landfall if necessary.
- Fill bathtubs and sinks with water for sanitation.
- Bring pets indoors and have pet supplies packed.
Tornado-Specific Preparations:
- Identify a safe shelter: Choose a basement, interior room on the lowest floor, or storm cellar. Avoid windows.
- Store helmets, blankets, and shoes in your shelter.
- Have a battery-powered NOAA weather radio ready.
What to Do During a Hurricane or Tornado
During a Hurricane:
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- Do not go outside during the “eye” of the storm—it will resume quickly.
- Turn off gas and electricity if flooding occurs.
- Monitor updates from official sources on evacuation or emergency instructions.
- Evacuate if told to—do not delay.
During a Tornado:
- Take cover immediately in your designated shelter.
- Crouch low, protect your head and neck, and cover yourself with a mattress or heavy blankets.
- If outside or in a car, lie flat in a ditch or low area—never stay in a vehicle.
- Do not seek shelter under bridges or overpasses—they funnel wind and are more dangerous.
After the Storm: Stay Safe
- Wait for official clearance before returning to your home.
- Watch for hazards: downed power lines, broken gas pipes, debris, and contaminated water.
- Photograph damage for insurance claims.
- Avoid using candles due to fire risk—use flashlights instead.
- Help neighbors in need, especially the elderly or injured.
Emotional recovery is just as important—support networks and mental health resources are vital after a traumatic event.
Glossary
- Evacuation zone — A designated area where residents must leave for safety in an emergency.
- NOAA weather radio — A nationwide system that broadcasts emergency weather information.
- Storm cellar — An underground shelter designed to protect against tornadoes.
- Eye of the storm — The calm center of a hurricane, surrounded by the most dangerous winds.
- Debris — Scattered fragments or wreckage caused by destruction.
