Tornadoes can occur very quickly, giving you little time to prepare. That’s why knowing the warning signs is important before one hits. A strange-looking sky, quiet air, or a loud roaring sound like a train can all be signs that a tornado is coming. In this blog, we’ll talk about the sights, sounds, and feelings that can help you spot a tornado early, whether it’s during the day or at night, so that you can stay safe.
Tornado Signs You Should Know
What Does a Tornado Sky Look Like?
One of the first clues a tornado might be on the way is an unusual sky. People often report feeling something off about the atmosphere before a tornado strikes.
Greenish or Dark-Colored Skies
Low-Hanging or Rotating Clouds
How To Know if a Tornado Is Coming
Besides changes in the sky, there are other warning signs of a tornado that you might hear or feel instead of see. It’s important to pay attention to these signs so you can stay safe.
Unusual Calm Before the Storm
Sometimes, right before a tornado hits, everything suddenly becomes very still and quiet. The wind may stop blowing, and it might feel strangely calm outside. This can feel a little scary, especially if there was thunder, rain, or wind just a few minutes before. That quiet moment happens because the storm is pulling air up into the funnel, which can cause the air around you to stop moving.
Loud, Persistent Roaring Sound
Signs a Tornado Is Coming at Night
Flashing Power Lines or Transformer Blasts
Sometimes during a strong storm, you might see bright, quick flashes of light near the ground. At first, they might look like lightning, but they could actually be something else. These flashes can happen when electrical transformers, big machines that help power buildings, get damaged by strong winds or flying debris.
When transformers break, they can make big flashes of light and loud popping sounds. Seeing these kinds of flashes can be a warning sign that a tornado is nearby or has already touched down.
Lightning Revealing Funnel Shapes
At night, it can be hard to see a tornado because it’s so dark outside. However, sometimes flashes of lightning can be helpful. When lightning lights up the sky, it may reveal the shape of a tornado funnel in the distance. These quick flashes can give you just a second to spot something dangerous that you wouldn’t be able to see otherwise.
How To Tell a Tornado Is Coming Without a Siren
- Animal behavior changes. Pets and wildlife often react to pressure drops and atmospheric tension before a tornado. If your pet is acting anxious or trying to hide, take it seriously.
- Feeling of heavy, oppressive air. A tornado can cause the atmosphere to feel thick or charged. This sensation is subtle but often noted by those who’ve experienced a tornado.
- Rapidly moving clouds in multiple directions. If you see clouds racing across the sky in conflicting directions or forming a visible rotation, seek shelter right away.
What To Do if You Notice Tornado Warning Signs
If you recognize any of these tornado warning signs, don’t wait. Taking quick, decisive action could save your life.
Seek Shelter Immediately
If you think a tornado is approaching, the safest thing to do is seek a strong, protected place immediately. The best spot is a basement or storm shelter, where you’re below ground and safe from strong winds and flying debris. If you don’t have a basement, go to a small, windowless room on the lowest floor of your house, like a bathroom, closet, or hallway.
