Tornado Warning
Queens County, NY · ended Thu 2:00 PM EST
A tornado is happening or radar shows one forming. Go to a basement or an inside room on the lowest floor now.
The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe limits, and no longer appears capable of producing a tornado. Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire.
What to do during a Tornado Warning
- 1Go to your safe place nowA basement, storm shelter, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.
- 2Protect your head and neckGet under something sturdy and cover up with your arms, a mattress, blankets or a helmet.
- 3Leave mobile homesMobile homes are not safe in a tornado. Go to the nearest sturdy building or shelter if you can get there quickly.
- 4If you are drivingDon’t shelter under a bridge or overpass. Get to a sturdy building if you can.
- 5Stay until it is overKeep alerts on and stay sheltered until the warning ends.
Tornado Watch vs. Warning
Tornado Warning questions
How long does a Tornado Warning last?
Usually 30 to 60 minutes. It covers the storm’s path and can be extended or replaced as the storm moves.
Who issues a Tornado Warning?
The local National Weather Service office, when a tornado is reported or radar shows one forming. In Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada issues them.
What if I can’t reach a building?
As a last resort, stay in your car with the seat belt on and your head below the windows, or lie in a ditch well below the road and cover your head. Never shelter under a bridge or overpass.