What to do when in a tornado in a car

Are you safe in a car during a tornado?

​It's not safe to remain in your car or drive during a tornado. Cars, buses, and other vehicles can easily be knocked over and tossed around. That's why you should always get to the nearest sturdy building and get underground if possible.

Can you take shelter below an overpass or a bridge?

Despite popular belief, government officials like the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness advise that seeking shelter under structures like bridges and overpasses is a bad idea. These areas can expose you to higher wind speeds and more dangerous flying debris.

What to do when driving during a tornado

• Get to shelter if you can If the tornado is far away or still forming, get to the nearest sturdy building and get underground if possible.
• Don't try to outrun the tornado
• Go to the nearest available shelter site, even if it's a store or office building, rather than trying to race home. Drive at right angles to the tornado's path to try and get out of its way.
• Try to make it to lower ground
• If you can't make it to shelter, NOAA advises leaving the car during a tornado if you can "safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway." In this case, you should get to the low area, lie down, and cover your head with your hands. If you're driving on a highway during a tornado, then this spot may be a ditch or ravine by the side of the road.
• Pull over and stop the car if you have no other options
• Do this as quickly – and safely – as you can. Keep your seat belt on and get low in the car, covering yourself with a coat or blankets if possible. Blankets are a good addition for winter weather if you keep a severe weather kit in the car.

Free quote