Tornado

Before a Tornado

Know the warning signs of a tornado:

  • Severe thunderstorms, with frequent thunder and lightning, high winds, or hail.
  • An extremely dark sky, sometimes highlighted by green or yellow clouds.
  • A rumbling sound or a whistling sound, sometimes sounding like a freight train.
  • A funnel cloud at the rear base of a thundercloud, often behind a curtain of heavy rain or hail.
  • Rain falling sideways.
  • If you see signs of tornado activity, don't wait for instructions. Take immediate protective action.
  • Be alert to changing weather conditions and watch for approaching storms. Monitor media broadcasts for weather statements or instructions.
  • Tornado Watch - a tornado could occur in your area and you should be on alert.
  • Tornado Warning - a tornado has been sighted and you should take cover immediately.

During a Tornado

If You Are In a House

  • Go to the basement or take shelter in a small interior ground floor room such as a bathroom, closet or hallway.
  • If you have no basement, protect yourself by taking shelter under a heavy table or desk.
  • In all cases, stay away from windows, outside walls and doors.

If You Are In an Office or Apartment Building

  • Take shelter in an inner hallway or room, ideally in the basement or on the ground floor.
  • Do not use the elevator.
  • Stay away from windows.

Avoid Cars and Mobile Homes

  • Find shelter elsewhere, preferably in a building with a strong foundation.
  • If no shelter is available, lie down in a ditch away from the car or mobile home. Beware of flooding from downpours and be prepared to move.

If You Are Driving

  • If you spot a tornado in the distance go to the nearest solid shelter.
  • If the tornado is close, get out of your car and take cover in a low-lying area, such as a ditch.

In All Cases

  • Get as close to the ground as possible, protect your head and watch for flying debris.
  • Do not chase tornadoes - they are unpredictable and can change course abruptly.
  • A tornado is deceptive. It may appear to be standing still but is, in fact, moving toward you.

After a Tornado

  • Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves when handling or walking on or near debris.
  • Do not call 911 unless you have an immediate life-threatening situation. Leave the phone lines open for those who are in need of life-saving emergency assistance.
  • Inspect the damage to your property. Be aware of possible structural, electrical or gas-leak hazards in your home.
  • If you suspect any damage to your home, shut off electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions.
  • If it is dark when you are inspecting your home, use a flashlight rather than a candle or matches to avoid the risk of fire or explosion.
  • Notify your insurance company if your property was damaged.

Contact Us

Phone
705-541-5173

Email
l.perry@cityssm.on.ca

Fax
705-949-2341

TTY
1-877-606-6665

Location
65 Old Garden River Road
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
P6B 5A5

Our Team