Office of Emergency Management

Severe Weather/Thunderstorms

Tornadoes can develop very suddenly, which leaves little time to react. Advanced planning is a key to survival.

What is a tornado?

A tornado is a violent windstorm characterized by a twisting funnel shaped cloud. It is spawned by a thunderstorm. They are produced when cool air overrides a layer of warm air, forcing the warm air to rise rapidly. The damage from a tornado is a result of the high wind velocity and windblown debris.

Tornado season is generally March through August, although tornadoes can occur any time during the year. They tend to occur in the afternoons and evenings. Eight out of ten tornadoes occur between noon and midnight.

Tornado Watches and Warnings

TORNADO WATCH - The National Weather Service issues a tornado watch when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes.

TORNADO WARNING - The National Weather Service issues a tornado warning when a tornado has been sighted or observed on radar. Move to a pre-identified safe room and stay tuned to a battery-operated radio (preferably a weather-alert radio) until the National Weather Services determines that the threat has passed.

Tornado Facts and Key Points
Tornado Danger Signs to look for
Before the Tornado
After the Tornado has hit