What you should do
Preparation
Common mistakes
Good Human responses
Bad Human Response
100

What is the safest place to shelter during a tornado in a house?

Go to the basement or a small windowless interior room on the lowest floor.

100

What is one thing you can do to prepare your home for tornado season?


Identify a safe shelter and secure heavy objects that could fall or fly during high winds. 


100

Why is it dangerous to try to outrun a tornado in your car?


Tornadoes can change direction quickly, and traffic or debris can trap you.

100

What did the town of Moore, Oklahoma do after multiple tornadoes to improve safety?


They passed laws requiring new homes to include storm shelters or safe rooms.

100

What is an example of price gouging after a tornado disaster?


Raising prices on water, gas, or hotel rooms to exploit people in need.

200

What should you do if your caught in a tornado while driving?

get Out of your car and lie flat in a ditch or any low area.

200

Why should families have a tornado drill and safety plan?


So everyone knows where to go and what to do, reducing confusion and panic during an emergency

200

What’s a common mistake people make with windows during a tornado?


Opening windows, which wastes time and can actually increase damage.

200

How did first responders help after the Joplin, Missouri tornado in 2011?


Conducted rapid search-and-rescue missions and coordinated emergency medical aid. |


200

How can misinformation on social media worsen tornado response?


It can cause panic, spread false warnings, or delay rescue efforts.

300

What is one item you should always have in a tornado emergency kit?

You should always have a functioning flashlight, water or food

300

What type of building is considered safest in a tornado-prone area?


FEMA-rated storm shelters or safe rooms built to withstand extreme winds.

300

Why is standing under a highway overpass during a tornado a mistake?

Wind speeds can intensify under overpasses, making them more dangerous.

300

What role do volunteers play in tornado recovery?


They assist with cleanup, distribute supplies, and help families rebuild homes and lives. 

300

Why was criticism directed at emergency services after a certain tornado event?


In some cases, warnings were issued too late or communication systems failed.

400

Why is it important to listen to NOAA Weather Radio during severe storms?


It provides continuous updates and alerts, even during power outages or phone service loss.

400

How can mobile homeowners effectively prepare for tornadoes?


Know where the nearest storm shelter is and plan how to reach it quickly. 

400

What mistake do people often make when interpreting weather alerts?


Not acting quickly enough and thinking the alert doesn’t apply to them.

400

What kind of assistance do FEMA and the Red Cross provide after tornadoes?


Emergency shelter, food, financial aid, medical care, and long-term recovery resources. 


400

What are the consequences of ignoring evacuation or shelter orders?


Increased risk of injury or death and greater strain on emergency services. 


500

What is the difference between a “tornado warning” and a “tornado watch”?


A watch means conditions are right for tornadoes; a warning means one has been spotted

500

What is a “go bag” and what should it contain for tornado emergencies?

An emergency kit with essentials like ID, water, snacks, first aid, flashlight, and weather radio.

500

Why is relying solely on visual cues to detect a tornado risky?


Tornadoes can be hidden by rain or darkness and not easily visible until it’s too late. 

500

How did communities support each other after the 2020 Nashville tornado?


Volunteers organized relief drives, shared resources, and provided shelter to displaced families.


500

Give an example of looting or criminal behavior following a tornado.


After some tornadoes, individuals have broken into damaged homes or stores to steal items.

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