Tornado & Severe Wind Preparedness

Tornadoes are among nature’s most violent storms—capable of destroying entire neighborhoods in seconds. Here in Southern Georgia, they can strike with little notice, sometimes forming within fast-moving thunderstorms or spinning off from tropical systems. While coastal tornadoes can be smaller, they can still be deadly, and inland twisters can bring devastating winds and flying debris. Because the warning time can be short—sometimes only minutes—it’s critical to know the signs, understand alerts, and have your shelter plan ready to act instantly.

Know the Signs of a Tornado

Rotating, funnel-shaped cloud
- A visible, funnel-shaped cloud extending toward the ground is the most obvious sign. Not all funnels touch down, but if you see one forming, take shelter immediately. (NOAA)
Approaching cloud of debris
- Even if you can’t see the funnel, a cloud of debris near the ground often marks a tornado’s location—especially in rain-wrapped storms where the funnel is hidden. (CDC)
Loud, continuous roar
- Many survivors describe it as sounding like a freight train. If you hear this—especially without nearby trains—move to shelter immediately. (CDC, FEMA)
Sudden calm after intense wind
- A brief lull can occur as the eye of the vortex passes over. This is not the end—strong winds will resume from the opposite direction. (NOAA)
Greenish or dark, eerie sky
- Severe storms can take on an unusual color when hail and heavy rain scatter light. Combined with other warning signs, treat this as serious. (Ready.gov)
Large hail with no rain
- Hail can mark the supercell updraft that spawns tornadoes. If hail is falling and skies look threatening, be ready to shelter. (CDC)

Know the Risks, Alerts & Lead Time

Know the risks, alerts & lead time — Watch vs. Warning
- Year-round risk in Southern Georgia: Tornadoes and severe winds can form quickly from fast-moving storms or tropical systems. Lead time may be only minutes—treat every alert as real and act immediately.
- Multiple ways to get alerts: Enable local alerts on your phone, monitor EAS and a NOAA Weather Radio (with battery backup), and use a reliable weather app so you’re covered indoors and outdoors.
- Tornado Watch = Be Ready: Conditions are favorable. Review your plan, confirm your safe room, charge phones, secure loose outdoor items, and keep a close eye on updates.
- Tornado Warning = Take Shelter NOW: A tornado is sighted or radar-indicated. Go to your safe place immediately—don’t wait to see it or hear sirens.
- Signs can precede alerts: Rotating funnel/cloud of debris, loud continuous roar (like a freight train), sudden calm after intense wind, greenish sky, or large hail. If you notice these, shelter at once.

Shelter & Supplies — Be Ready to Act Fast

Choose the safest available shelter
- Best: FEMA-built storm cellars or safe rooms. If not available, use window-free interior rooms on the lowest floor—hallways, closets, or bathrooms. Stay away from heavy items overhead.
- Mobile homes offer no real protection. Go somewhere sturdy if you can, or lie flat in a nearby ditch and cover your head if no shelter is available.
- Never use underpasses—they can amplify wind and expose you to debris.

Protect yourself with head and body covering
- Cover your head with blankets, cushions, or helmets to guard against flying debris.
- Place a heavy table, mattress, or other sturdy object over you if possible.

Plan your safe shelter and have supplies ready
- Have a ready kit with water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, sturdy shoes, and any medications you may need.
- Keep helmets, blankets, and pillows nearby to protect your head and body from flying debris.

Coastal Tornadoes & Waterspouts

Reduce Wind Damage (Property)

At Work / At School

Know the plan for your workplace or school
- Identify designated safe areas such as interior rooms or hallways away from windows. Basements are best if available.
- Ask about drills, alert systems, and who is responsible for announcing when to take shelter.

Act immediately when a warning is issued
- Don’t wait to confirm—move to the safe location right away. Bring your phone, ID, and any emergency supplies within reach.
- If you’re responsible for students, visitors, or co-workers, guide them quickly and calmly to safety.

If caught outside or in a vehicle
- Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle in a populated area—traffic or debris can trap you.
- If no sturdy shelter is nearby, lie flat in a low spot away from trees and cover your head with your arms.

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