A tornado watch is issued by the National Weather Service when weather conditions are such that tornadoes are likely to develop. This is the time to remind family members where the safest places within your home are located, and listen to the radio, or television, for further developments. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. The danger is very serious, and everyone should go to a safe place, turn on a battery operated radio and wait for further instructions. Tornadoes are spawned from powerful thunderstorms and the most powerful thunderstorms produce large hail.
Tornadoes frequently emerge from near the hail producing portion of the storm.
A visible rotating extension of the cloud base is a sign that a tornado may develop. It is not uncommon to see clear, sunlit skies behind a tornado. If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or small inner room without windows, such as the bathroom or closet. Stay away from windows. Stay away from corners in a room - corners tend to attract debris.