If you’re at home the best place to be is in your basement.  If you don’t have a basement, get in a small, windowless room on the ground floor.  The main idea here is to put as many walls between you and the outside as possible.  Whilst in the room, stay under something sturdy like a workbench.  Be sure to stay away from windows.  Don’t try to open or close them.

In schools, hospitals, and shopping centres, move to pre-designated shelter areas. Interior hallways on lowest floors are best. If the building is not of reinforced construction, go to a nearby one that is, or take cover outside on low, protected ground. Stay out of auditoriums, gymnasiums, and other structures with wide free-span roofs.

In open country, move away from the tornado/s path at right angles. If there is not time to escape, lie flat in the nearest ditch or ravine.

In your car, do not try to outrun a tornado. If available, take shelter in a sturdy structure. Otherwise, get in the nearest ditch or depression until the tornado passes.

Homepage image/ Amanda Johnson

By Howard Joseph, WeatherWatch.co.nz and NOAA