Emergency Information Center: Tornadoes
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    Emergency Resources

    Tornado
     
    Tornado
     
    Tornadoes are violent storms that can strike anywhere, at any time and with little warning. Stay alert to these danger signs:
    • Severe thunderstorms with strong, gusty winds
    • A dark, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from the sky to the ground
    • A roaring sound
    Know the difference between a watch and a warning. A tornado WATCH means conditions are favorable for a tornado. A tornado WARNING means a tornado has been sighted or detected by weather radar: Take shelter immediately!

    In the event of a Tornado Warning, protect yourself and your family:
    • If you are at home, go to your basement or a central room on the lower level. Stay away from windows.
    • If you are in a public building, go to the designated shelter area or a central room on the lower level. Stay away from windows.
    • If you are driving, stop your vehicle, get out and go to a storm shelter or lowest level in a nearby building.
    For power outages, call Pepco's 24-Hour Outage Report Line at 1 (877) 737-2662. For downed wires call Pepco immediately at (202) 872-3432. To have trees or debris removed, call the Mayor's Citywide Call Center at (202) 727-1000.
     
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