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What should I do if I see a tornado while driving?
I’ve been relocated to Texas for work and while there are a lot of things I’m excited about, being in Tornado Valley is not one of them. I’ve read some crazy stories about people driving with a tornado coming and I’m wondering—what should I do if I see one while I’m on the road?
Andrea Barrett · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Tornadoes are definitely not the most ideal thing to see while you’re driving and they are very common in Texas. If you see a tornado while driving, the best and safest thing you can do is get out of the tornado’s path—change the direction you’re driving and head towards a sturdy shelter as soon as possible.
Some places that have a basement or cellar where you can take shelter include:
- Truck stops
- Convenience stores
- Restaurants
A lot of people are under the impression that taking cover under an overpass or hiding in lower ground like a ditch is safer, but it’s not. You should use ditches and ravines as a last resort since you may be exposed to flying debris, hail, rain, lightning, and other elements.
Don’t take shelter in high-risk structures like mobile homes. Your car is actually safer than a mobile home.
If you’re able to see the tornado and determine how it’s moving, you can drive at a right angle in the direction it’s moving. For example, if the tornado is heading east, you want to drive south.
If you’re in your car and in immediate danger, do this:
- Stay calm and don’t panic
- Stay in your vehicle and put your seatbelt on
- Cover your head with a blanket (if available) below your windows and windshield to protect yourself from glass
To keep both you and your vehicle safe, make sure you have the right insurance that protects you from wind damage—comprehensive coverage usually does.
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