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How Can I Prevent Storm Damage During Tornado Season?

Last updated October 20, 2026

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The short answer

Secure Your Home's Exterior

A strong wind can turn loose objects into damaging projectiles. Walk around your property and identify items that could be picked up, like patio furniture, grills, and trash cans. Secure these in a garage or shed, or use straps or weights to keep them in place. Also, inspect your fencing for loose panels or posts that could fail during high winds.

Your roof is a critical line of defense. Check for missing, loose, or damaged shingles before the season starts and make repairs promptly. Ensure your gutters are clear of debris so heavy rain can drain properly away from your foundation. Consider installing hurricane clips or straps to better secure your roof to the walls, which helps prevent uplift.

Reinforce Doors and Windows

Windows and doors are vulnerable points during a tornado. Consider installing impact-resistant windows or adding storm shutters. If those are not an option, you can use pre-cut plywood panels to cover windows from the outside, but this requires time and preparation before a storm hits. Make sure you have the necessary hardware and tools stored with the panels.

  • Install storm shutters or have pre-cut plywood ready.
  • Ensure entry doors have at least three hinges and a deadbolt.
  • Reinforce your garage door with a retrofit kit.
  • Check that all windows latch securely.
  • Seal gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping.
  • Consider impact-resistant glass for new windows or doors.

Prepare Your Property and Landscape

Overgrown trees and shrubs can cause severe damage. Trim tree branches so they are at least six feet away from your roof and siding. Remove any dead or dying trees entirely, as they are likely to fall. Look for large, weak limbs that hang over your house, driveway, or power lines and have them professionally removed before storm season.

Your yard's drainage can prevent water from pooling and causing foundation damage or flooding. Ensure downspouts extend at least five feet away from your home's foundation. Grade the soil so it slopes away from the house. If you have a basement, check that your sump pump is in working order and has a battery backup in case of a power outage.

Create a Family Safety Plan

Everyone in your household should know where to go when a tornado warning is issued. Identify the safest interior room on the lowest level, away from windows, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior bathroom or closet. Practice going to this space so children know what to do. Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and a helmet, like a bike helmet, in this space for protection.

What to Do If Damage Occurs

After the storm passes and it is safe, carefully inspect your home for damage. Look for broken windows, roof damage, and signs of water intrusion. Take photographs of any damage for your insurance records before making temporary repairs. Be extremely cautious of downed power lines and standing water, which could be electrically charged. If you smell gas, leave the property immediately and call the utility company.

If you discover water damage, act quickly to prevent mold. Remove standing water if you can do so safely and move wet items to a dry area. Ventilate the space by opening windows if the weather permits. For significant flooding or structural concerns, it is best to contact local water damage pros for a thorough inspection and drying. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

If you discover water damage, act quickly to prevent mold. Remove standing water if you can do so safely and move wet items to a dry area. Ventilate the space by opening windows if the weather permits. For significant flooding or structural concerns, it is best to contact local water damage pros for a thorough inspection and drying. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

  • Document all damage with photos and videos.
  • Make only temporary, safe repairs to prevent further damage.
  • Avoid electrical hazards from standing water or wet appliances.
  • Contact your insurance company to start a claim.
  • Save all receipts for temporary repairs and supplies.
  • Get a professional inspection for hidden water or structural issues.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the safest place in my home during a tornado?

Go to the lowest level, in a small, windowless interior room like a bathroom, closet, or hallway. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. If you have a basement or storm shelter, use it. Avoid rooms with exterior walls and windows.

How can I protect my car from storm damage?

Park your vehicle inside a garage if you have one. If not, park it away from trees, light poles, or buildings that could collapse. Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding. Using a car cover may protect against minor hail, but it will not prevent damage from large debris.

Should I turn off utilities after a tornado?

Only if you suspect damage or are instructed to do so by authorities. If you smell gas, leave immediately and call the gas company from outside. You may turn off the main water valve if pipes are broken to prevent flooding. Let an electrician check for hazards before restoring power.

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