Hurricane Ian might cause tornadoes in SC, forecasters say. Signs one is coming and what to do

Before Hurricane Ian arrives in South Carolina later this week, it might be prudent to brush up on signs that a tornado is imminent and on what to do during and immediately after one.

The hurricane, which is marching toward the U.S. and is expected to impact South Carolina mainly Friday and Saturday, could generate some tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service.

Unlike hurricanes, tornadoes give less warning time and yet can be just as dangerous and devastating. However, beyond emergency weather alerts, there are signs of forming tornadoes to watch for, along with steps to take during and immediately after a tornado, according to the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.

Tornado signs

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information.

• Look for approaching storms.

• Watch out for the danger signs like a dark, often greenish sky, large hail, a large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating) or a loud roar that’s similar to a freight train. If you see any of these danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

During a tornado

• If you are under a tornado warning, take shelter immediately.

• Get indoors to a shelter area like a basement, storm cellar or the lowest level of a building. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls.

• Shutter windows and outside doors.

• If you are in a vehicle, trailer or mobile home, get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building.

• If you’re unable to get indoors, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands.

• Never try to outrun a tornado in your vehicle. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately and seek shelter.

After a tornado

• Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

• Avoid downed power lines and report them to the local utility company.

• Stay out of damaged buildings.