Skip to Content Accessibility Information

Maryland Department of Emergency Management

Tornado watches and warnings

Snow Hill, MD — Tornadoes are nature’s most violent storms, with whirling winds that can reach 300 mph. Spawned from powerful thunderstorms and Hurricane Irene, damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long.

Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. Pay attention to local media such as radio and television to monitor weather warnings in your area.

  • Tornado Watch – Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Heed media updates and warnings.
  • Tornado Warning – A tornado has been sited or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.

During a Tornado Watch

  • Listen to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio or commercial media for updates.
  • Be alert for an approaching storm, particularly a revolving funnel-shaped cloud. Other tornado danger signs include a dark, almost greenish sky; large hail; a large, dark, low-lying cloud; or a loud roar, similar to a freight train.
  • Be warned that sometimes tornadoes develop so rapidly; there is no visible advance warning.
  • Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as an auditorium, cafeteria, supermarket or shopping mall.
  • Be prepared to take shelter immediately. Gather household members, pets and disaster supplies.

During a Tornado Warning

  • In a home/house or small building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement or storm cellar. If there is none, go to an interior room on the lower level like a closet, interior hallway. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to cover your head and neck.
  • Do not open windows. Use the time to seek shelter.
  • Go to the center of the room, avoiding the corners, which attract debris.
  • In large public buildings, go to predetermined shelter areas. Interior hallways on the lowest floor are usually safest. Stay away from windows and open spaces.
  • In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest possible floor.
  • Get out of vehicles, trailers and mobile homes immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy nearby building. Never try to outrun a tornado in a congested area.
  • If caught outside with no shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential of flooding.
  • Do not go under a bridge or overpass. You are safer in a low, flat location.
  • Watch out for flying debris from tornadoes, the cause of most fatalities and injuries.

After a Tornado

  • Listen to the media for the latest emergency information.
  • Be aware of broken glass and downed power lines.
  • Help injured or trapped persons. Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of death or further injury.
  • Stay out of damaged buildings, returning only when authorities have deemed it safe.
  • Use the telephone only in emergencies.
  • Leave the area if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
  • Take photographs/video of the damage for insurance purposes.
  • Remember to help your neighbors, particularly those who may require special assistance.