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Read more Tornado watch issued for Aiken County Saturday evening
An updated tornado watch was released by the NWS Charleston SC on Saturday at 6:20 p.m. in effect until 8 p.m. The watch is for Allendale, Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester, Hampton and Jasper counties.
This watch is in effect until 8 p.m.
Ways to protect yourself during a tornado
The NWS emphasizes the importance of acting quickly to stay safe during a tornado. Keep yourself informed about tornado watches and warnings by staying connected to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio.
Read more UPDATE: Tornado warning for Barnwell County forecast to expire at 5:15 p.m.
- If you are indoors: When a tornado warning is issued, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room that lacks windows. Take your pets with you if time permits.
- 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: 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: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. The best course of action is to drive towards the nearest shelter. If finding a safe shelter is not possible, either crouch down inside your car and protect your head, or abandon your vehicle and seek shelter in a low-lying area such as 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:
Read more Flash flood warning in place for Aiken and Edgefield counties Saturday evening
- 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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