Tornado Warning Issued for Southern Lancaster County
What does a tornado watch mean?
‘Break’ means a dangerous tornado has been sighted or is imminent. People in southern Lancaster County don’t have to wait for the storm to see it. Tornadoes can form quickly and wreak havoc in minutes, so it’s best to protect yourself right away.
- Get in the house, preferably in a basement or storm cellar.
- Keep away from doors and windows and outside walls.
- Monitor your phone, weather radio or official alert source for updates.
- Do not drive until the warning ceases.
- Cover your head with a helmet, pillow or heavy blanket.
Why was Southern Lancaster County named?
A tornado warning was issued for south Lancaster County as severe thunderstorms showed signs of producing a tornado. These storms could produce damaging winds, heavy rain, hail and dangerous flying debris. Even without a tornado, the storm can produce dangerous conditions for homes, roads, and power lines.
Where Can Residents Take Shelter?
During a tornado warning, the safest place is the lowest level of a sturdy building. A basement is best, but an interior room, hall or bathroom without windows will also provide shelter. Mobile homes and cars are not safe during a tornado. Residents are urged to find a sturdy shelter immediately.
- Go to the lowest level of your house or building.
- Choose a small room in the inside, without windows.
- If possible, get under a sturdy table.
- Bring your pets to the shelter.
- Stay indoors until officials say it’s safe to go outside.
Do families protect themselves during the tornado warning?
If a tornado warning is issued, families need to act quickly and calmly. “Everyone in the house has to know where to go, what to take. Keep children away from windows and tell them the safest thing to do is to stay low, quiet and protected until the storm threat is over.
- Family members evacuated to shelter location.
- Have emergency supplies on hand.
- Charge phones if you have time.
- Turn on emergency alerts and weather alerts.
What drivers now need to do
It is very risky to drive during a tornado warning. Tornadoes often cross roads at high speed, and heavy rain can limit visibility. If you are out and about in Southern Lancaster County, don’t try to outrun the storm. Right now, seek shelter in a sturdy building close by.
What Kind of Damage Can Tornadoes Do?
Tornadoes can rip roofs off, break windows, knock down trees, flip cars and knock out power lines. Flying debris is one of the biggest dangers in a tornado. Open areas, mobile home parks and neighbourhoods with big trees can all suffer serious damage even from a tornado that doesn’t last long.
- Can damage roof and siding.
- Trees and power lines can fall down.
- Debris can harm vehicles.
- Objects outside can become dangerous missiles.
- The storm may cause power cuts.
How long should people stay on alert?
Residents are advised to remain vigilant until the tornado warning ends or local officials declare the threat has dissipated. Severe storms can have more than one area of rotation, so the threat may continue after the first storm cell passes. “Check out the weather for good updates.
What do you need to have prepared for an emergency?
A good emergency kit makes it a lot easier to get through severe weather. Southern Lancaster County residents are encouraged to take important items to their area of shelter or keep close by. These supplies help families to be safe in case of power outages, blocked roads or delayed emergency services.
- Batteries and flashlight (extra)
- Weather radio or phone charged.
- Light refreshments and bottled water.
- First aid box and medicines
- Waterproof pouch for important papers
What Comes After the Warning?
When the warning has passed, people should assess themselves and property for injuries and damage before coming out of their shelter. Don’t go near downed power lines, broken glass, flooded streets or damaged buildings. If there are emergency people in the area, get out of their way. Advise local authorities of any hazard. If safe to do so, help neighbours.
What can residents do to get ready for future storms?
Tornado preparedness should not start when a warning is issued. Residents can reduce risk by developing a family safety plan, registering for local alerts and practising shelter locations. “Residents of Southern Lancaster County should review their emergency plans every severe weather season.
- Go to your nearest safe location.
- Enable wireless emergency alerts on your phone.
- Refresh your emergency supply kit.
- Secure all outdoor furniture before a storm hits.
- Talk about safety plans with your children and elderly relatives.
Why the Hurry?
Tornado warnings are only issued when there is imminent loss of life and property. Waiting for a visual confirmation could be dangerous, especially if it is dark or raining heavily. The best is to get cover, stay tuned and wait for the official word that the warning is over.
