A tornado appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, striking the ground with whirling winds of up to 200 miles per hour or more. A tornado spins like a top and may sound like an airplane or train.
Tornadoes can strike at any time of year and often accompany hurricanes.
They occur most frequently during April, May and June. If you see any revolving, funnel shaped clouds, report them immediately by telephone to 911. Know the locations of designated shelter areas in public facilities, such as schools and public buildings. Have emergency supplies on hand during tornado season. Be sure everyone in your household knows in advance where to go and what to do in case of a tornado warning.