Tornadoes in South Dakota are not common, but they are also not rare...they can and do occur in our area, and can develop quickly.

Tornadoes are violent storms which can cause major devastation and loss of life. They can strike without warning and, even with warning, are very unpredictable. Whenever a tornado warning has been issued and/or the public warning sirens sound, seek shelter immediately and turn your radio or TV on to a local station for information.

IN HOMES:  Seek shelter in the basement for the greatest protection. Get under a stairwell, or heavy furniture, if possible.  In homes without basements, seek shelter in the central part of the house, in a small room on the lowest floor, like a bathroom, closet or hallway.  Protect yourself from flying debris with pillows or blankets. Stay away from windows and exterior walls. Do NOT open windows. Strong winds and flying debris may injure you.

IN SHOPPING CENTERS:  Go to a designated shelter area, not to your vehicle.  

IN SCHOOLS :  Follow advance plans and go to the designated shelter area.  Stay out of the auditoriums, gyms and other structures with open, free-span roofs.

IN OFFICE BUILDINGS/HOTELS/MOTELS:  Go to an interior hallway on the lowest floor or to a designated shelter.  Avoid windows, skylights and other areas containing glass structures. Use the stairs, not the elevator. Leave large rooms with high open ceilings, large windows and skylights, such as gymnasiums, church sanctuaries or industrial buildings.

IN VEHICLES:  Do not try to drive away from a tornado or take cover under a highway overpass. If there are no buildings nearby, leave your vehicle and find a low area away from it that is clear of potential debris, such as trees and power lines. Lie flat and cover your head.

IN OPEN COUNTRY:  Go to a nearby ditch, ravine or gully, lie flat and over your head. Watch for rising water from the heavy rains that often accompany a tornado.

IN MOBILE HOMES/TRAILERS:  Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to tornadic winds and should be evacuated.  Mobile home parks should have a pre-designated storm shelter. Mobile home residents should plan to take shelter in a permanent structure or with friends, neighbors or family.  DO NOT wait until the last minute to evacuate...allow sufficient time to leave your mobile home and arrive at your shelter area. If you don't have time, lie flat in a ditch or ravine away from the mobile home and protect yourself with pillows and/or blankets.