District Issues Protective Actions for Tornadoes 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 a tornado is possible. 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 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.