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Read more UPDATE: Tornado warning for Barnwell County forecast to expire at 5:15 p.m.
A tornado watch was released by the NWS Columbia SC on Saturday at 5:29 p.m. in effect until 8 p.m. for Aiken County.
This watch is in effect until 8 p.m.
Ways to protect yourself during a tornado
According to the NWS, acting quickly is key to staying safe during a tornado. Continue to listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay updated about tornado watches and warnings.
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- If you are indoors: During a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room without windows. If time allows, bring your pets.
- If you are at your workplace or school: Follow your tornado drill protocol and make your way to the designated tornado shelter area. Maintain a safe distance from windows and avoid seeking refuge in large open rooms like cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
- If you are outside: In case of an approaching tornado, quickly seek shelter inside a safe building. Keep in mind that sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe options.
- If you are in a vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. The best course of action is to drive to the closest shelter. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine.
Have you put together an emergency kit for tornado scenarios?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping the following items in a basic disaster supplies kit:
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- 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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