Last
year, 51 tornadoes hit Virginia, the second highest number on record. To
encourage tornado awareness and safety, Gov. Bob McDonnell has proclaimed March
20 as Tornado Preparedness Day in the commonwealth.
On March 20, businesses and
organizations, schools and colleges, and families and individuals are
encouraged to practice taking cover from tornadoes by participating in the
Statewide Tornado Drill, set for 9:45 a.m. At that time, the National Weather
Service will send a test tornado warning that will trigger a tone alert and
broadcast message on NOAA Weather Radio. The message will be picked up by TV
and radio broadcasters, simulating what listeners will hear during an actual
tornado warning.
When the test tornado warning is
sounded, people should move as quickly as possible to a safe area in a sturdy
building. Safe areas are basements and crawl spaces, as well as interior
rooms, bathrooms, closets or hallways on the lowest level of a building. In
choosing a safe area, stay away from windows. Once in the safe area,
crouch down or sit on the floor, facing down, and cover heads with
hands.
