Things to know about tornado warnings before it's too late

Understanding what do to when you see a tornado or hear a tornado warning can protect you and your family.

Known as nature's most violent storms, tornadoes appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground with whirling winds that can reach 300 mph.

Tornadoes may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel. Tornadoes may strike quickly, with little or no warning. So in efforts of educating the community on tornadoes, this article will provide helpful information regarding tornadoes.

Know the terminology used in reference to tornadoes. A tornado watch indicates tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.

On the other hand, a tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. If you are under a tornado warning, shelter should be sought immediately. According to the Department of Homeland Security your location determines the precautions needed once a tornado warning is released. The table below provided by the United State Department of Homeland Security indicates:

If you are in a: A structure (e.g. residence, small building, school, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center, high-rise building).

Then: It is recommended going to a pre-designated area like a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If you do not have a basement, go to the center of a small interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Create a space with many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.

In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible. It is best to have on sturdy shoes, and to not open windows.

If you are in a home or office

Then: One should get out immediately and locate the known location such as the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, provide little protection from tornadoes.

If you are outside without shelter:

If you are not in a sturdy building, there is no single research-based recommendation for what last-resort action to take because many factors can affect your decision.

However, possible actions include:

"Immediately get into a vehicle, buckle your seat belt and try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter. If your vehicle is hit by flying debris while you are driving, pull over and park. Take cover in a stationary vehicle. Put the seat belt on and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible. Lie in an area noticeably lower than the level of the roadway and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible."

Visit www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 653-8411 for more information regarding this week's column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee.

Upcoming events

Sept. 5 -- Labor Day, Extension, all county offices closed

Sept. 6 -- Indiana Extension Homemakers Association deadline to register for knitted cowl lesson.

Sept. 8 -- Putnam County Fair board Annual Meeting, 6 p.m., Fairgrounds.

Sept. 29 -- Indiana Extension Homemakers Association Achievement Night, 7 p.m., Fairgrounds.