June is a big month for summer road trips, but it’s also peak tornado season in many parts of the U.S., especially in the South and Midwest. While it’s not super common to see a tornado while driving, it’s always good to know what to do just in case. This blog post will help you stay safe if you’re ever on the road and spot severe weather.
Watch for the Warning Signs
Tornadoes can happen fast, but there are some clues that one might be forming. Keep an eye out for:
- A dark, greenish sky
- Large, low-hanging clouds that may start to rotate
- A loud roar that sounds like a freight train
- Debris being blown around in the air
If you’re hearing tornado sirens or see a tornado warning on your phone, take it seriously and act quickly.
Where NOT to Go
One of the biggest myths out there is that hiding under an overpass is a good idea during a tornado. It’s not! Wind can actually be stronger under an overpass and turn it into a wind tunnel full of flying debris. Stay far away from overpasses.
Best Places to Seek Shelter
Your number one goal is to get to a sturdy building if possible. Gas stations, rest stops, or any solid structure can offer protection from flying debris and high winds. If there’s a building nearby, get inside and go to the lowest level, away from windows.
What If You’re On the Highway?
If you’re on a highway and can’t get to a building, don’t keep driving toward the tornado. Try to exit the highway and find shelter. If that’s not an option and the tornado is nearby, your best bet is to get low and either lie flat in a ditch or low area and cover your head, or stay buckled in your car, keep the engine running, and cover your head with something like a jacket or blanket to protect from glass and debris.
Driving in a City or Rural Area
In a city, try to pull over safely and get into the nearest sturdy building. In rural areas, if there’s no shelter nearby, a ditch is often safer than staying in your vehicle. Wherever you are, don’t take shelter under trees or bridges, and stay alert for flooding as well as high winds.
Tornadoes are scary, but knowing what to do ahead of time can help you stay calm and make smart decisions. Stay weather-aware, check the forecast before road trips, and trust your instincts--if something doesn’t feel safe, it probably isn’t.
Interested in learning more about traffic safety?
Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?
Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.