A tornado is a violently rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm down to the ground. A tornado that has not reached the ground is referred to as a funnel cloud. In the midwestern US, tornadoes can be seen from miles away. Here in midwest Georgia, there is much less advanced warning because of toppgraphy and the fact that our tornadoes are often hidden in large swaths of rain and hail. Sometimes tornadoes can form with no warning at all, so you should remain alert and be prepared to take action even if no warning is issued. Tornadoes are possible anywhere in Georgia, at any time of day or night, and at any time of the year. Take time now, before the storm even threatens, to plan what you would do and where you would go if there was a tornado while you were at home, work, school, or outdoors.

When a tornado occurs: If you're in your home or another sturdy building, move to your pre-determined "safe area." Ideally, this should be an underground area (either a storm celler or basement). If underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room on the lowest floor. You want as many sturdy walls as possible between you and the tornado. Stay away from windows. crouch down and try to protect your head torso as much as possible. If you're in a gymnasium, auditorium, or other large-roof-span building, try to find an interior hall or other small room that may offer better protection. If you're in a mobile home, you should seek shelter in a sturdy building. Even mobile homes that are well tied down offer little protection from a tornado. If you're in your vehicle, pull over and get out. Vehicles offer ZERO protection a tornado. Never try to outrun a tornado in your car. Make a run for a nearby ditch if possible. If you're outside, try to get to a ditch if possible. It should be noted that experts say that highway underpasses are NOT safe, despite familiar video clips that show people riding out a storm underneath an interstate bridge.