Tornado warnings while driving on the highway create dangerous decisions. Do you stop and shelter? Keep driving? Turn around? Understanding tornado safety on the highway can save your life when severe weather strikes during travel.
Immediate action required
Time is critical
Don't wait for confirmation
Assume tornado is real
Every second matters
Continue driving away from storm direction
Check radar to see tornado path direction
Head at right angles to path if possible
Find sturdy shelter (restaurant, gas station)
Get inside a building
Exit vehicle immediately
Get low - ditch or ravine
Away from vehicle (may be blown)
Cover head with hands
Lie flat, face down
Wind speeds increase under bridges
Multiple deaths documented
Debris flies through opening
Overpasses NOT tornado shelter
Common but dangerous myth
Stay in vehicle
Buckle up
Get below window level
Cover head with hands and arms
Cover with cushions if available
Prepare for impact
Gas stations often have interior areas
Fast food restaurants provide shelter
Truck stops with shelter areas
Motels have sturdy structures
Interior locations preferred
Monitor weather before driving
Avoid travel during active warnings
Have NOAA weather radio in vehicle
Wireless Emergency Alerts enabled
Know shelter locations along route
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