A tornado is a violent windstorm characterized by a twisting funnel shaped cloud.  A severe thunderstorm or hurricane can also spawn tornadoes.  Tornadoes can be a serious hazard to people in New England.  Your first line of protection is to be aware of weather forecasts and official warnings for the area.

Typical tornado season for New England runs from June through November annually.

For earliest notification of bad weather, residents should purchase a weather alert radio which can be activated by the National Weather Service.  These radios are inexpensive and are available at stores such as Radio Shack.  The radio will turn on when the weather notifications are passed and will keep you informed of the storm's progress.

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Terms to Know

TORNADO WATCH – Tornadoes are possible in the area.  Remain alert.

TORNADO WARNING – A tornado has been sighted or is indicated by weather radio in your area.  Prepare to move to your pre-designated place of safety.

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Look out for:

-         Dark, often greenish skies

-         Large hail

-         Loud roar, similar to a freight train

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Safety Tips:

At Home:

-         Go to the basement

-         If there is no basement, go to an interior part of the structure on the lowest level such as a closet, interior hallway or bathroom.

-         Move to the center of the room, away from windows.

-         Get under a piece of sturdy furniture, such as a table or desk.

-         IF IN A MOBILE HOME: GET OUT!! FIND SHELTER ELSEWHERE.  In Ledyard, the high school will be opened as soon as possible to shelter residents needing to exit mobile homes.  If you get to the high school and no one is there do not panic, help will arrive shortly.  If you arrive and cannot get into the building and the storm is approaching the high school follow the actions to take if in your car which are listed below.