An approaching cloud of debris can mark the location of a tornado even if a funnel is not visible.
Before a tornado hits, the wind may die down and the air may become very still.
Tornadoes generally occur near the trailing edge of a thunderstorm. It is not uncommon to see clear, sunlit skies behind a tornado.
Where to Take Shelter
Single Family Homes
The safest place to be during a tornado is in a basement, under something sturdy, like a workbench.
If there is no basement, seek shelter in the middle of the building on the lowest level, in a small interior room, like a closet or bathroom, away from outside walls and windows.
In An Automobile
If you see a funnel cloud, or hear a Tornado Warning issued for your area on the radio or by siren, do not try to outrun the tornado, the path and speed of a tornado is unpredictable.
Get out of your vehicle and seek a safe structure, or lie down in a low area (a ditch or ravine) with your hands covering the back of your head and neck.
At Work or School
Be aware of emergency shelter plans in office buildings and schools you and your family frequent.
If a specific shelter area does not exist, move into interior hallways or small rooms on the building's lowest level.
Avoid areas with glass.
At A Store or Shopping Mall
If you can't get into a basement or designated shelter, move to the center of the lowest level of the building, away from windows, and lie flat.