Share on LinkedIn

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) - Every year, 132 tornadoes touch Texas soil. While it is not the most common weather risk for the Brazos Valley, it is important that we are prepared and know what to do if and when disaster strikes.

Most people know that the safest place to be in the event of a tornado is inside a building in the most interior room and away from any windows. If you’re at school or your workplace, safety protocols are put into place. In both of these situations, you are in a free-standing building. But what do you do if you’re caught in a tornado emergency while on the road?

If in a vehicle, pull off the road and park your car as quickly and safely as possible. If you can get to noticeably lower ground, like a ditch by the roadway, exit the vehicle and get as low to the ground as possible. If that is not an option, stay in the car with your seatbelt on. Put your head down below the windows and cover your head with your hands.

The worst place to be during a tornado emergency is under bridges and overpasses. These offer very little protection and can enhance tornadic winds, making the situation even more dangerous.

While in your vehicle, unfortunately, there are no truly safe options, just slightly less dangerous ones.

This is why it is important to be weather-aware. If you know when storms are expected, you can make a plan to not be on the roadways.