Tornadoes often occur on the outer fringes of tropical storms and hurricanes. Several times in recent years, schools have been hit by tornadoes. In most instances, fortunately, classes were not in session. In some other instances, where students were present, school officials familiar with twisters safeguarded the children by taking prompt action just before the tornadoes hit. Remember also there may not be time for a tornado warning before a twister strikes.
Tornadoes form suddenly.
Teachers and students should know the difference between a watch and a warning. School officials at the state and county level should have a plan for rapid dissemination of tornado watches and warnings to every school in the system, either by radio or telephone. Each school should be inspected and tornado shelter areas designated. Schools with basements should use these as shelter. Schools without basements should use interior hallways on ground floor that are not parallel to the tornado's path, which is usually from the southwest.