It’s the stuff of nightmares: You’re behind the wheel when a tornado suddenly appears in the distance. It’s a heart-pounding moment—but with the right knowledge, it doesn’t have to lead to panic. Understanding what to do before you're in that situation can make all the difference. Here are the key dos and don’ts to help you stay calm, make smart decisions, and protect yourself when every second counts.
Change Direction and Seek Shelter
If the tornado is still far off and traffic is light, try to steer clear of its path. The safest way to do this is by driving at a 90-degree angle to the tornado’s direction—so if it’s moving east, head south.
If you can drive to safety, aim for a sturdy building like a bank, convenience store, truck stop, or restaurant. Once inside, move quickly to the safest area available: a basement, an interior hallway, a windowless room in the center of the building, or even a walk-in cooler.
Stay Low
If the tornado is nearby, do not try to outrun it. Instead, pull over safely and assess your surroundings.
If there’s a ditch or low-lying area nearby, exit your vehicle and move quickly to that spot. Lie flat, face down, and cover your head with your hands. Stay low and wait until the tornado passes.
If there’s no lower ground, remain in your vehicle. Buckle your seatbelt, get as low as possible, and position your head below the windows to avoid injury from shattered glass. If you have a blanket (a must-have in your emergency kit), use it to cover your head. If not, use your hands for protection and stay put until it’s safe.
Avoid Overpasses and Tunnels
It might seem like a solid idea to shelter under an overpass or inside a tunnel during a tornado—but don’t. These structures don’t just fail to protect you—they can actually make things more dangerous. Wind speeds often intensify in these areas, turning flying debris into deadly hazards.
Crowding into an overpass can also block the roadway, putting others at risk by stopping traffic and potentially delaying emergency responders.
Stay Alert After the Storm
Even after a tornado passes, hazards remain. Watch for debris like broken glass, nails, and sharp metal. If you exited your vehicle, return cautiously and avoid anything that could cause injury. Be especially careful around downed power lines—never assume they’re safe.
If your car has serious damage, especially to the windshield or tires, avoid driving. Call for assistance instead. Safety doesn’t end when the skies clear—stay aware until you know the area is secure.
Tornado Safety Starts with Preparation
Tornadoes are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Knowing how to act—whether you can drive to safety, need to shelter in place, or face danger on the open road—can make all the difference. With the right preparation and presence of mind, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself and others, no matter what the weather brings.
