How to prepare for tornadoes in Oklahoma City

Spring in Oklahoma City means a greater chance of severe weather, and when storms move in, preparation matters. Having a plan, knowing where to go and staying informed can make all the difference.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Have multiple ways to get weather alerts.
• Make sure at least one works without electricity, Wi-Fi or cell service, such as a hand-crank weather radio.
• Oklahoma City has 182 outdoor warning sirens across the city.
• Sirens sound when the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning or there is a credible tornado report nearby.
• If you hear a siren, take shelter immediately and get more information.
• There is no all-clear signal, so when the sirens stop, it does not mean the threat is over.

When it is time to take shelter:

• The safest place is a storm shelter built to FEMA guidelines or a basement.
• If neither is available, go to the lowest level of a sturdy building.
• Shelter in an interior room, hallway or closet away from windows and doors.
• Vehicles and manufactured homes are some of the most dangerous places to be during a tornado.
• If you are driving, get to the nearest well-constructed building and never try to outrun the storm.

A few ways to be ready before storms hit:

• Build a 72-hour emergency kit with water, medicine, a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies and pet food.
• Review your tornado plan with your family before severe weather arrives.
• Make sure pets are included in that plan, too.
• Talk about how you will reconnect if cell service goes down.

Good to know:

• Residents with storm shelters are encouraged to register them through Oklahoma City’s free Storm Shelter Registry at okc.gov/regshelter.
• Registering helps first responders locate shelters in an emergency.
• After a tornado, officials urge residents not to self-deploy into damaged areas.
• Those who want to help should volunteer through established groups like Oklahoma Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster or support recovery through cash donations to reputable organizations.