Notice October 25, 2024: The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) phone system has returned to normal operations. Community members can contact SMCHD at 301-475-4330.

Tornado Preparedness

Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris with winds that can exceed 200 MPH.

The most common time for tornadoes in Maryland is April through November. Maryland typically experiences several tornadoes per year. Because tornadoes can develop rapidly, often in just a few minutes, it is important to be prepared for your own and others’ safety. 

Tornado Terminology: Tornado Watch: Weather conditions could lead to the formation of severe storms and tornadoes. Be prepared. know your safe location. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. Tornado Warning: A tornado has been spotted or indicated by weather radar, meaning a tornado is occuring or expected soon. Take Action. There is imminent danger to life and property. Immediately seek refuge in the safest location possible. Tornado Emergency: An exceedingly rare situation with a severe threat to human life and catastrophic damage due to a confirmed violent tornado. Take Action. There is imminent danger to life and property. Immediately seek refuge in the safest location possible.

Tornado Warning Signs

  • Look up! If you see any of these danger signs, take shelter immediately:
    • Dark or green colored sky
    • Large, dark, low-lying cloud
    • Large hail
    • Loud roar similar to a freight train

Sign up to get weather alerts via the St. Mary’s County Government CodeRED Emergency Notification System!

Shelter Plan

Tornados can develop rapidly so it’s important to have a plan in the event a tornado occurs. Knowing the closest/best place to take shelter can protect you from flying debris, the cause of most injuries or deaths during a tornado.

  • Identify a place to take shelter
    • The safest place is the basement or an inside room, without windows, on the lowest floor in a sturdy building.
    • Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
  • If you are traveling and a tornado develops
    • Do not go under an overpass or bridge – you are safer in a low, flat location.
    • Do not try to outrun a tornado – Find a sturdy building to take shelter or stop your car, put your head below the windows, and cover your head.

Staying Safe During a Tornado

  • Take shelter immediately – if you see a warning sign, or have been alerted by a tornado warning go to the safe location you have identified.
  • Protect yourself by covering your head or neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around or on top of you.
  • Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle if you are in a car – if you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible.

Staying Safe After a Tornado

  • Pay attention to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, and local authorities for updated information
  • Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
  • Contact your healthcare provider if you are sick and need medical attention – Wait for further care instructions and continue to shelter in place.
  • Wear appropriate gear during clean-up such as thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves, use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.

Additional Resources

Translate »
Accessibility by WAH