UPDATE: Tornado with half-dollar-sized hail to hit Dallas and Ellis counties Wednesday
On Wednesday at 10:01 p.m. the NWS Fort Worth TX issued an updated tornado warning. Half-dollar-sized hail (1.25 inches) is expected with the incoming storm.
"At 10:01 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Ovilla, or near Midlothian, moving east at 25 mph," says the NWS. "Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely."
According to the NWS, "Take cover now! If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter now! Get to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. Tornadoes are extremely difficult to see and confirm at night. Do not wait to see or hear the tornado. Take cover now!"
This warning is in effect until 10:30 p.m.
Tips for finding shelter during a tornado
According to the National Weather Service, rapid action is key to staying safe during a tornado. Remain updated about tornado watches and warnings by following local news or a NOAA Weather Radio.
• If you are indoors: In the event of a tornado warning, seek shelter in your basement, safe room, or an interior room without windows. If possible, bring your pets along with you.
• If you are at your workplace or school: In accordance with your tornado drill, proceed calmly and swiftly to the assigned tornado shelter location. Steer clear of windows and avoid seeking refuge in large open areas such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
• If you are outside: Seek shelter inside a safe building immediately if a tornado is approaching. Sheds and storage facilities are not safe. Neither is a mobile home or tent.
• If you are in a vehicle: It is not safe to remain in a vehicle when a tornado strikes. The most appropriate action is to drive to the closest shelter available. If unable to reach a secure shelter, either crouch down in your car, covering your head, or abandon the vehicle and seek refuge in a low-lying area like a ditch or ravine.
Do you have an emergency kit ready in case of a tornado?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping the following items in a basic disaster supplies kit:
• Water, one gallon per person for at least three days
• Food, at least a three-day supply
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Flashlight
• First-aid kit
• Whistle
• Dust mask to filter contaminated air
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape, for shelter purposes
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps
Source: The National Weather Service
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