What to Do Once a Tornado Has Passed

After a tornado strikes, the initial shock can feel overwhelming. However, taking deliberate steps in the immediate aftermath is crucial to safeguard personal well-being, evaluate property damage, and set the foundation for a successful recovery.

Here’s what to do after a tornado to protect yourself, your family, and your home, with straightforward guidance on handling immediate needs, managing hazards, and accessing assistance.

What Do You Do After a Tornado? Nine Helpful Steps 

After a tornado, taking the right actions can make a critical difference in your safety and recovery. The following are nine essential steps to help you move forward in the aftermath of a tornado.

1. Assess Your Surroundings 

Avoid rushing outside immediately after a storm. Tornadoes can leave behind hidden dangers, such as downed power lines, gas leaks, and unstable debris that can topple over and cause injuries. 

What do you do after a tornado if you suspect a gas leak? Avoid using matches or lighters, and do not turn on any switches. Leave the area immediately. As soon as you can safely, contact emergency services for guidance and assistance. Also, stay away from power lines, as these can remain hazardous long after the tornado has passed.

If you’re inside a structurally sound building, it’s wise to remain indoors until local authorities confirm it is safe to leave. Listen to emergency broadcasts or use a battery-powered radio if power is out. This will provide real-time information on ongoing risks, like after-storm flooding or additional severe weather warnings.

2. Conduct a Headcount and Check for Injuries

After a tornado, ensuring everyone’s well-being should be your top priority. Gather family members and perform a quick headcount. Check for injuries, from minor cuts and scrapes to more severe wounds. Tornado debris, which often includes glass and metal, can cause hidden injuries, so even seemingly small scratches should be treated to prevent infection.

If someone is seriously injured, avoid moving them unless they’re in immediate danger. Tornadoes can damage infrastructure, limiting medical resources, so keep a first aid kit accessible and provide care while waiting for emergency responders if needed.

3. Protect Yourself With Appropriate Gear

Broken glass, sharp metal, and other debris pose real threats in the aftermath of a tornado, even to those just walking around their property. Wearing protective gear can help keep you safe. 

Sturdy shoes, gloves, and long sleeves offer protection from cuts and abrasions, while safety glasses shield your eyes from dust and debris. This is especially important for anyone involved in post-tornado cleanup. 

4. Document Property Damage for Insurance

Once your and your household’s safety is established, you should begin documenting property damage. From a safe vantage point, photograph and record all visible damage, from structural problems like roof damage to more minor issues like fallen fences. This documentation will be invaluable for insurance claims, especially if you must make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

If you have questions on what to do after a tornado regarding insurance, contact your carrier as soon as possible. Insurance representatives can offer guidance on what documentation is needed, and some may even arrange temporary shelter if your home is uninhabitable.

5. Avoid Unstable Structures and Hazards

Avoid entering any structure with extensive damage, particularly if walls, rooflines, or floors look compromised. Remember that, in the aftermath of a tornado, homes and buildings may appear stable even though they’re not. Tornadoes often damage buildings in ways that aren’t obvious, so only trained professionals should assess and clear severely damaged areas.

Downed trees and debris around your property should also be approached with caution. If trees or branches have fallen near power lines or against your home, hire a professional. Avoid handling heavy debris on your own.

6. Access Local Resources and Support

Once you’ve ensured your household’s immediate safety and documented the damage to your property, knowing where to find assistance is helpful. Local government agencies, relief organizations, and community groups frequently offer support after severe weather events. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross typically provide resources for those affected by tornadoes, including temporary housing, food, and recovery assistance.

It’s beneficial to stay updated on community resources through local broadcasts, social media, and announcements at community centers. Many neighborhoods have designated shelters or resource centers set up after tornadoes, offering food, supplies, and information on recovery services. If unsure where to turn, check with your local government or community organizations for guidance on available resources.

7. Address Immediate Repair Needs Safely

Tornadoes can weaken homes and buildings, making them more prone to damage. For this reason, it’s essential to make repairs as soon as possible. Choose a reputable, licensed contractor and focus on urgent issues first, such as structural damage to the walls, floors, and foundation. However, remember that local repair companies may be experiencing high demand and may take time to reach your property.

Temporary fixes can help prevent further damage to your home while you wait for permanent repairs. If your roof is damaged, covering it with a tarp can prevent water from entering and causing additional issues while you wait for the contractor’s team to arrive. You can also use plywood or sturdy coverings to block broken entry points. However, avoid climbing onto damaged roofs or using unstable ladders without proper support. 

8. Contact Your Insurance Provider

If your property has sustained damage, start the insurance claim process as soon as possible. In the aftermath of a tornado, insurance companies typically prioritize cases based on the extent of damage and the needs of each customer.

Contact your provider and follow their steps to file a claim. Keep track of all receipts related to temporary repairs or living expenses, as some insurance policies cover these costs if your home is uninhabitable.

After filing a claim, stay in touch with your insurance representative to ensure the process moves smoothly. Understanding the answer to “What should you do after a tornado?” in terms of insurance can make the process less stressful, and an experienced agent can offer advice on managing repairs and replacements.

9. Prepare for Future Weather Events

After experiencing a tornado, it’s natural to think about preparing for future storms. Consider assessing your emergency plans and supplies to ensure you’re better prepared should another storm occur. 

Stock up on essentials, including bottled water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered radio for emergency updates. Make sure everyone in your household knows the safest location to seek shelter in your home and how to respond if a tornado warning is issued.

If your area is prone to tornadoes, consider investing in stronger structures, storm shutters, or even a safe room. Preparedness can provide peace of mind, and knowing what to do after a tornado beforehand reduces stress in future situations.

Enhance Home Safety and Get Peace of Mind With a Tornado Shelter

A tornado shelter is a wise investment in home safety, offering protection and reassurance during severe weather. Lone Star Safe Rooms, a trusted manufacturer of tornado shelters and safe rooms, provides highly durable, expertly engineered options to give you and your family a secure place to seek refuge. 

We take pride in offering long-lasting, resilient, and reliable tornado shelters at competitive prices. In order to learn more about our products and for a free estimate, don’t hesitate to get in touch.