Tornadoes can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable, causing severe damage to everything in their path. If you find yourself driving during a tornado, it’s important to know what to do in order to stay safe. In this article, we will provide you with some essential tips on what to do during a tornado in a car.
Before You Get on the Road
It’s always better to be prepared before you hit the road, especially when the weather is unpredictable. Here are some things you should keep in mind before you start driving:
Check the Weather Forecast
Before you get on the road, it’s essential to check the weather forecast. This will give you an idea of whether you can expect any severe weather conditions during your journey. If you notice that there is a tornado warning in your area, it’s best to postpone your trip if possible.
Plan Your Route
It’s always a good idea to plan your route before you start driving, as this can help you avoid any areas that are prone to tornadoes or severe weather conditions.
Bring a Disaster Kit
You should always have a disaster kit in your car in case of an emergency. This kit should include things like a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, a blanket, and some non-perishable food items.
What to Do During a Tornado in a Car
If you are driving during a tornado, there are a few things you can do to stay safe. Here are some tips:
Stay In Your Car
While it may be tempting to get out of your car and seek shelter elsewhere, it’s actually safer to stay in your car during a tornado. Your car provides some protection from the flying debris that is often associated with tornadoes.
Pull Over
If you can safely do so, pull over to the side of the road and turn off your engine. Do not try to drive through a tornado, as this can be extremely dangerous.
Stay Low
If possible, get as low as you can in your car. This means crouching down in the footwell or getting under a blanket or other cover. This will help protect you from flying debris.
Put Your Seatbelt On
Make sure that you put your seat belt on before the tornado hits. This will help keep you safe in case the tornado causes your car to roll over or flip.
Cover Your Head
If you have a blanket or jacket in your car, use it to cover your head and neck. This will help protect you from any flying debris.
Avoid Overpasses
Contrary to popular belief, overpasses are not a safe place to seek shelter during a tornado. In fact, they can be extremely dangerous, as the wind can actually be stronger under the overpass than it is out in the open.
Stay Away from Windows
If possible, move away from the windows in your car. This will help protect you from any flying debris that may come your way.
Turn on Your Hazard Lights
If you are pulled over on the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights so that other drivers can see you. This will help prevent any accidents from occurring.
Wait It Out
Once the tornado has passed, wait until it is safe to continue driving. If there is damage to the road, it’s important to be patient and wait for emergency services to arrive.
Conclusion
Driving during a tornado can be a scary experience, but there are things you can do to stay safe. Remember to stay in your car, pull over to the side of the road, stay low, put your seatbelt on, cover your head, avoid overpasses, stay away from windows, turn on your hazard lights, and wait it out. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of staying safe during a tornado in a car.
FAQs
Is it safe to drive through a tornado?
No, it is not safe to drive through a tornado. If you find yourself driving during a tornado, pull over to the side of the road and turn off your engine.
What should I do if I cannot find a safe place to pull over during a tornado?
If you cannot find a safe place to pull over, try to get as low as you can in your car and cover your head with a blanket or jacket.
What should I do if my car is hit by flying debris during a tornado?
If your car is hit by flying debris during a tornado, try to stay as low as you can and cover your head with a blanket or jacket. Once the tornado has passed, wait until it is safe to continue driving.
Should I stay in my car if a tornado is approaching and I am stuck in traffic?
Yes, it is safer to stay in your car during a tornado, even if you are stuck in traffic. Turn off your engine, put on your seatbelt, and cover your head with a blanket or jacket.
What should I do if I am driving in a tornado and my car starts to roll over or flip?
If your car starts to roll over or flip during a tornado, stay as low as you can and try to protect your head and neck with a blanket or jacket. Once the tornado has passed, wait until it is safe to continue driving.