Difference between tornado watch and warning and other tips to be prepared

Guest post by Kathryn Dunmore, Red Cross blogger

Summer brings warmer weather but also an increase in frequency of tornado warnings and watches. On average, Canada gets 62 tornadoes a year and they can have devastating effects on homes and communities. Do you know the difference between a tornado watch and warning? Are you prepared if there is a tornado in your region?
 
Tornado facts
  • A tornado is a vortex of violently rotating winds, often forming a funnel shaped cloud that is capable of damaging property and injuring people
  • Tornadoes typically occur in southern Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, the interior of British Columbia and western New Brunswick
  • June and July tend to be peak seasons due to weather conditions
  • Two thirds of Canadians have not taken steps to prepare for a disaster like a tornado
  • A tornado watch means the potential exists for the development of tornadoes. With a tornado watch, you should keep up to date on current weather situations and be prepared for an occurrence.
  • A tornado warning requires more immediate action and should be taken seriously. We’ve included some tips on what to do to prepare before, during and after an emergency such as a tornado.
Did you know that Canada now has a new public alert system called Alert Ready that broadcasts alerts about tornadoes and other emergencies through television and radio?
 

 
 
Before
  • Find a place where family members can gather if there is a tornado warning. Keep this spot clutter free
  • Identify a place in a hallway in the centre of the building if you are in a high-rise building. Check if there is a building emergency plan by talking to your building superintendent or manager
During
  • Watch for danger signs:
    • Dark, often greenish or orange-grey skies
    • Large hail
    • Large, dark, low-lying, rotating or funnel-shaped clouds
    • Roaring noise – similar to the sound of a freight train
  • Move your family to your safe location, such as a basement or lower level of the building
  • Lie flat in a ditch or a low-lying area if you are outside and there is no shelter nearby
  • Get out immediately and head for safety if you are in a car or mobile home. It is unsafe to stay in your vehicle as it could be picked up, blown over or roll over you
After
  • Stay away from damaged areas and fallen power lines
  • Listen to the radio for further information and instructions
  • Inspect your home for damage once your home has been declared safe to re-enter
As always, be ready: find out more about the risks in your community, make a plan and get a kit.

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