Tornado Safety and Preparedness

Safest Places To Wait Out A Tornado

Tornado approaching house in rural landscape — (John Lund/Getty Images)

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If a tornado were headed towards your home, would you know which room to go to for shelter?

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the United States gets an average of over 1,000 tornadoes per year. In fact, tornadoes have been documented in every state. The phenomenon is part of a severe convective storm which strikes all over the planet. So contrary to popular belief, you don't need to be in Kansas to experience one.

Many homes aren't outfitted with a tornado shelter. But with the right preparation, you can outsmart what's headed your way. Here's where to take shelter depending on where you are when a tornado hits.

Inside Your Home: Go To The Basement

Modern plumbing in the basement of an old building. — (Thinkstock)

According to the NOAA, if you're in your home during a tornado, you should go directly to the basement. Avoid windows so you can stay clear of any broken glass. To protect yourself from falling debris, be sure to stay under a table or mattress if possible. Additionally, if you're aware of the location of heavy items in your home — refrigerator, piano — do not stand under them in the basement.

Inside A Home With No Basement: Lowest Floor Possible

If your home has no basement, go to the lowest floor and find a small central room — without windows — like a hall bathroom, closet or stairwell. Anything you can do to shield yourself from fallen debris is helpful, like crouching in a bathtub, covering your head with your hands or wrapping yourself in a blanket.

Inside A Mobile Home: Get Out

A trailer, demolished by a tornado, is twisted around an uprooted tree. North Carolina, — (Angelina Lax/Getty Images)

According to the NOAA, tornados can destroy even tied-down mobile homes, so your best bet is to get out fast. Seek shelter in a nearby building or secured structure.

In The Open Outdoors: Seek Nearest Building

A strong tornado approaches a farmstead in Nebraska on June 9th, 2003. This storm resulted in the destruction of several farms similar to this one. — (Gene Rhoden/Weatherpix/Getty Images)

Don't try to outrun the storm. Seek shelter below ground or go indoors as quickly as possible. If there is nowhere to go, find a low-point (a ditch or hole) and lay face down. Stay as far away from trees and cars as you can to avoid being crushed.

In A Theater Or Church: Get Under The Seats

Old fashion cinema theatre seats with wooden arms and flip-up seats — (Thinkstock)

If you do find yourself in a theater or church during a tornado, getting under seats or pews is the smartest thing to do. Stay towards the middle aisle to avoid any windows.

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