TULSA, Okla. — Whether you're new to Oklahoma or have lived here your whole life, it's important never to get too comfortable when severe weather is forecasted.
With a high risk of severe weather in central Oklahoma and a moderate risk in Green Country on Monday, May 6, here are some tips to stay prepared.
The latest 2 News forecast:
Severe Storms Likely Tonight
Watch vs. Warning
Watch: A torndao watch means the ingredients are there for a tornado. If a watch is in place, this is the time to get preparations in place.
- Warning: A tornado warning means a tornado is on the ground and it's time to seek shelter immediately.
What to look for when seeking shelter
- Find a safe room built to withstand high winds. The next best protection is a small room with no windows on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
- Mobile, manufactured, trailer homes and recreational vehicles (RVs) are not safe in high wind events. Plan ahead by finding a sturdy building to shelter in before a tornado watch or warning.
- If you live in an apartment and do not have a suitable room, you can shelter in a hallway in the middle of your building, plan to shelter with a neighbor on a lower floor or consider any common spaces that you can get to quickly, like a community building.
If you're on the road when a tornado hits
- Do not drive through heavy rain or hail. Reduce your speed and pull over safely to the side of the road. Do not stop unless you are completely off the road!
- Turn on your hazard lights to improve visibility, as it can be incredibly limited.
- Don’t drive through standing water. Driving through standing water, especially if it is deep, can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
- If you are driving and there is a tornado:
- If you are far enough away from the tornado, drive in a 90-degree angle away from the twister.
- If the tornado is close, abandon your car and seek shelter in a sturdy structure. If there are no buildings close by, find a low spot or ditch away from your car.
Know where to get updates
- Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government.
- Plan to monitor 2 News online or on our app.
- Have a backup battery or a way to charge your cell phone.
- In case of a power outage, have a battery-powered radio.
Download Storm Shield App for iPhone and iPad
Download Storm Shield App for Android
MORE
Severe Weather Guide (English)
Severe Weather Guide (Spanish)
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