What do I do in an upstairs apartment during a tornado?

Question

My family was recently relocated, and are living in an upstairs apartment (top level, only a roof above us, no other apartments) until my husband's company finds a house for us. We have had several tornado warnings (not just watches, which are many) since moving here, and have always went downstairs to our friend's apartment. She moved and the downstairs apartments are now unoccupied, and there is no basement or storm shelter.

We have four children, and had another tornado warning two days ago. I didn't know what to do, so I gathered them with me in my son's room, near the inner walls (this is what we did downstairs) and prayed.

Was this the best place for us? Any input is welcome. Having lived in the Bay Area for many years (including the Richter magnitude 7.1 Quake in 1989), earthquakes don't phase me at all... but I am clueless about tornadoes. I'm as scared of them as I am in awe. ::lol::

We've only been near two, while driving, and those terrified me.

Thank you for the help!

Answer 1

If a tornado warning is issued take action immediately. Avoid staying upstairs. See if you can get into the unoccupied apartment. If you can go to the center of the ground floor in an interior room without windows. If not, go to the nearest building and seek shelter there. Or lie in the nearest low lying spot with your hands over your head. Don't wait until you see or hear the tornado because then it might be too late. Don't try to seek shelter in automobile. The tornado can easily lift it up no matter how fast your driving.  Your best bet is to try to find a building or go into a low lying spot and cover head with hands.

Answer 2

GO TO THE BATHROOM AND LAY IN THE BATH