Tornado Watch Preparation: Essential Checklist and Safety Tips

Meteorologists have a tough job predicting the weather. Tornado prediction rules started in 1884, and now we have Doppler weather radar technology, first used on May 24, 1973, in Union City, Oklahoma, which helps a lot.

Technology helps, but predictions are just part of the challenge. People in tornado-prone areas need to know what to do if bad weather is coming.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), most tornadoes come from supercell thunderstorms. The National Weather Service says a supercell has a deep, rotating updraft called a mesocyclone, which can lead to a tornado.

A tornado watch means a tornado might happen near you. If there's a watch, stay alert by listening to the radio, watching weather reports, or looking at the sky. Use this time to prepare and get organized. Tornadoes can happen any time but are most common in spring and summer. NOAA says about 55 people are killed by tornadoes each year. Tornado season is earlier in the south (March/April) and later in the north (May/June).

You can only see tornadoes when they touch down and pick up debris. This makes it hard to predict their path, so be ready to move quickly.

Being prepared can save your life if a tornado hits. Cities test tornado sirens monthly. Have a survival plan and be ready to act.

Here's what to do:

Check your emergency kit:

• Use a backpack for your supplies.

• Include extra food and water, a whistle, flashlight, socks, sturdy shoes, a small radio, extra batteries, disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, tissues, duct tape, garbage bags, tools to turn off utilities, comfort items, games for children, pain relievers, list of medications, contact info for doctors and pharmacies, personal hygiene items (toothbrush, contact solution, feminine products, toilet paper, etc.), baby supplies (bottles, formula, wipes, diapers), change of clothes, important papers (insurance, birth certificates, bank accounts), and a phone/tablet charger.

• Have a first-aid kit and supplies for pets, including chew toys, food, and water.

• Make sure they have a state license on their collar in case they get lost.

• Listen to the radio, watch news or weather stations, or check official social media for updates.

• Listen for sirens that tell people outside to take shelter.

• Mobile homes are not safe during tornadoes. Find nearby shelter and have an emergency kit ready to go.

Prepare for your pets:

Pay attention:

Find shelter if you live in a mobile home:

Being prepared and staying informed can make a big difference during tornado season.

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