Tornado Awareness

Stay tuned for storm warnings:

  • Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.
  • Know what a tornado Watch and tornado Warning mean:
  • A tornado Watch means a tornado is possible in your area.
  • A tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately.
  • Tornado Watches and Warnings are issued by the County based on information received from trained "Severe Weather Spotters" or from the "National Weather Service" office.

When a Tornado Watch is issued

  • Gather lawn and patio furniture, gas and charcoal grills, toys and garbage cans and put in secure area. High winds often precede a tornado.
  • Listen to your local radio and TV stations for further updates.
  • Be alert to changing weather conditions. Blowing debris or the sound of an approaching tornado may alert you. Many people say it sounds like a freight train.

When a Tornado Warning is issued:

  • If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado may be approaching your area.
  • If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area.
  • If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety (as above).

After the Tornado passes:

  • Watch out for fallen power lines and do not venture into the damaged area.
  • Listen to the radio for information and instructions.
  • Use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage.

Did you Know?

  • A typical thunderstorm lasts for less than an hour.
  • 1,800-2,000 thunderstorms occur around the world at any moment.
  • Flash floods and lightning will kill more people annually than tornadoes.
  • Tornadoes are the most devastating local storms experienced on earth.
  • In Wisconsin, tornadoes have occurred in every month except February.
  • In Wisconsin the most active tornado months, by order are June, July, May and August.
  • 75% of tornadoes will occur between 3:00 - 7:00 pm with 5:00 pm being the most likely time.
  • Between 1980-2007, Washington County had 11 tornadoes.
  • The last confirmed tornado in Washington County occurred on June 3, 2007