The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists what steps to take if they are caught out on the highway during a tornado.
Motorists should avoid traveling if possible during times when tornados are likely, it says.
The National Weather Service issues a tornado watch when there is a potential for tornados. Motorists should pay close attention to the sky during the watch, it says. A tornado warning is made when a tornado is spotted or there is an indication that thunderstorm circulation could spawn a tornado. Once a tornado warning is issued, persons should seek shelter immediately.
If motorists are caught unexpectedly in a tornado as they are traveling on the highway, driving away from the tornado’s path may be the safest option if the tornado is far away. If the tornado is bearing down, stop the vehicle off the traveled portion of the roadway and seek a sturdy shelter or lie flat in a ditch or other low spot.
Persons who are outside, should remember to cover their head with their arms, coat or blanket. Stopping near the roadway increases the chance of being struck by other motorists, the patrol says. Stopping under an overpass can cause a dangerous wind tunnel effect. Motorists may be struck by debris or blown out from under the bridge. In some cases bridges have collapsed, killing and injuring those who are seeking shelter underneath them.
Col. James F. Keathley reminds motorists to pay attention to changing weather conditions. Tornados can develop quickly and cause catastrophic damage.