How to Prepare for Severe Weather: Hail and Tornado Safety Tips

​Severe weather events like hailstorms and tornadoes can strike with little warning, especially in regions like Texas, Kansas, and Missouri.


Being prepared is crucial to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones. Here are essential steps to help you stay safe before, during, and after such events.

🌀 Understanding the Risks
Tornadoes and hailstorms are common in the central U.S., particularly during spring and early summer. Tornadoes can cause widespread destruction, while hail can damage vehicles, roofs, and windows. Awareness of these risks is the first step toward preparedness.

📻 Stay Informed

• Monitor Weather Alerts: Regularly check local forecasts and sign up for emergency notifications through NOAA Weather Radio or local alert systems. NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory+3Ready.gov+3Time+3
• Understand Warnings: Know the difference between a Tornado Watch (conditions are favorable) and a Tornado Warning (a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar).

🏠 Prepare Your Home

• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or tie down loose objects like patio furniture to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
• Protect Windows: Close shutters or use plywood to shield windows from hail damage.​Reinforce Garage Doors: Ensure garage doors are sturdy, as they can be vulnerable during high winds.

🧰 Assemble an Emergency Kit
Prepare a kit that includes:

• Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)EMSA
• Non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio American Red Cross+1American Red Cross+1
• Flashlight and extra batteriesEMSA
• First aid supplies
• Medications and medical supplies
• Important documents (copies of insurance policies, identification)
• Cash
• Emergency contact information 

Include items for infants, pets, or anyone with special needs. CDC

🚗 Safety During Travel

• Avoid Driving: If a storm is imminent, postpone travel.National Weather Service
• Seek Shelter: If caught in a hailstorm while driving, safely pull over under a sturdy shelter.
• Stay in the Vehicle: Keep your seatbelt on, and cover your head with your arms or a blanket to protect against potential glass breakage.

🛑 During a Tornado

• Find Shelter Immediately: Go to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor without windows, such as a bathroom or closet. 
• Protect Yourself: Use heavy furniture, mattresses, or blankets to shield yourself from debris.
• Avoid Windows: Stay away from windows to prevent injury from shattered glass.

🐾 Don't Forget Pets
Include pets in your emergency plans:

• Have carriers or leashes ready.
• Stock up on pet food and water.
• Keep copies of veterinary records.CDC

🧹 After the Storm

• Stay Informed: Continue listening to weather updates in case of additional storms.
• Inspect for Damage: Carefully check your property for hazards like downed power lines or structural damage.
• Document Damage: Take photos of any damage for insurance purposes.
• Avoid Floodwaters: Do not walk or drive through flooded areas. National Weather Service+1IBHS+1

Being prepared for severe weather is not just about protecting property—it's about safeguarding lives. Stay informed, have a plan, and ensure that every member of your household knows what to do when severe weather strikes.

For more detailed information and resources, visit the National Weather Service and Ready.gov.