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Tornado

Torndoes are nature's most violent storms. They can appear suddenly without warning and can be invisible until dust and debris are picked up or a funnel cloud appears. Planning and practicing specifically how and where you take shelter is a matter of survival. Be prepared to act quickly. Tornadoes can and have occurred in Delaware, making advance preparation vitally important.

Did you know that Delaware has more tornadoes per square mile on an annual basis than half the other states in the country?  A recent tornado in New Castle County damaged numerous buildings and sent these two C-130 planes at the Delaware Air Guard Base colliding into each other.  Think it can't happen here?  It can.

2004 Tornado in New Castle, DE

2004 Tornado in New Castle, DE

Determine in advance where you will take shelter in case of a tornado warning:
  • Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.
  • If underground shelter is not available, go into an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
  • In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
  • Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they attract debris.
  • A vehicle, trailer or mobile home does not provide good protection. Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible.
  • If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
  • Plan to stay in the shelter location until the danger has passed.
Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a tornado hazard.

  • Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for tornadoes in and close to the watch area.
  • Tornado Warning: A tornado has been detected by Doppler Radar and/or has been sighted.
2004 Tornado in New Castle, DE

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