When severe weather strikes, being prepared can make all the difference. Tornadoes can develop quickly, leaving little time to react—especially if you’re on the road. Knowing what to do before, during, and after a tornado can help keep you and your vehicle out of harm’s way.
In this guide, we’ll cover seven crucial tips to help you stay safe when a tornado is near. From finding shelter to protecting your car from damage, these steps could save lives. Plus, if your vehicle sustains storm-related damage, Robert Brogden’s Garden City Honda is here to help with expert service and support. Read on to stay prepared and keep yourself and your car safe when the skies turn dangerous.
1. Keep Your Vehicle in Peak Condition for Stormy Weather
Bad weather can strike at any time, so your car must be ready. Strong winds, heavy rain, and hail can make roads unsafe. A well-maintained car handles these risks better. Brakes, tires, and wipers play a key role in tornado safety. If any of these fail, driving becomes much more dangerous. Regular Honda maintenance ensures your vehicle is in top shape before storms roll in.
Before storm season starts, check key parts of your car:
- Tires – Good tread helps with traction on wet roads. Low pressure or worn tires make slipping more likely.
- Brakes – Quick stops matter in bad weather. A Honda service check can spot worn brake pads or low fluid.
- Wipers & Lights – Clear vision is key in a storm. Replace wipers if they streak or skip. Check all lights often.
If a storm damages your car, get it fixed right away. Hail can crack glass, and high winds can loosen parts. After bad weather, check for dents, leaks, or other damage. A trusted Honda repair team can handle fixes so your car stays safe. Whether you drive a Pilot, Odyssey, or Accord, taking care of your vehicle before a storm can help keep you and your family protected.
2. Pack an Emergency Kit for Your Car
A well-stocked emergency kit can make all the difference in bad weather. Storms can knock out power, flood roads, or leave you stranded. Having the right supplies in your Pilot, Odyssey, or Accord keeps you prepared. Whether it’s a small storm or a major one, an emergency kit helps you stay safe until help arrives.
Here are the most important items to keep in your car:
- First aid kit – Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers for minor injuries.
- Flashlight & extra batteries – Power outages can make roads and parking lots pitch black.
- Bottled water & snacks – Keep enough for each passenger in case you’re stuck for hours.
- Phone charger & backup battery – A dead phone can make it hard to call for help.
- Blanket & extra clothes – Staying warm is crucial if the weather turns cold.
- Jumper cables & tire repair kit – A dead battery or flat tire can leave you stuck in dangerous conditions.
In tornado safety situations, extra precautions matter. A small shovel and sturdy gloves can help clear debris. A whistle or bright flag makes it easier for rescue teams to find you. Checking your emergency kit every few months ensures all items are in good condition. Keeping your car stocked and ready gives you peace of mind, no matter what the weather brings.
3. Where to Shelter If You’re in Your Car During a Tornado
Getting caught in a tornado while driving is dangerous. The best option is to find a sturdy building and take cover inside. If possible, drive to a gas station, store, or storm shelter before the storm reaches you. Never try to outrun a tornado, as they can change direction quickly.
If you cannot find a safe building, follow these steps:
- Avoid bridges and overpasses. Wind speeds increase in these areas, making them even more dangerous.
- Stay in your car if no shelter is nearby. Keep your seatbelt on and get as low as possible.
- Cover your head. Use a blanket, jacket, or your hands to protect yourself from flying debris.
- Park away from trees and power lines. Falling objects can crush your vehicle.
In flat, open areas with no shelter, leaving your Pilot, Odyssey, or Accord may be safer. If you do, lie flat in a low ditch and cover your head. Tornado safety depends on fast action, so knowing what to do ahead of time is key. After the storm, check for injuries and seek help if needed.
4. Secure Your Vehicle Before a Storm Hits
Before a tornado arrives, take steps to protect your car from damage. If you have a garage, park inside and close the door. If no indoor space is available, try to park near a strong building that can block wind and debris. Avoid trees, power lines, and loose objects that could become projectiles.
Here are some steps to keep your Pilot, Odyssey, or Accord safe:
- Check your windows and doors. Make sure they are shut tight to keep out rain and debris.
- Fill up your gas tank. A full tank helps if you need to evacuate quickly.
- Take photos of your car. This helps with insurance claims if damage occurs.
- Remove loose items around your parking spot. Garbage cans, patio furniture, and tools can fly into your car during strong winds.
Regular Honda maintenance can also help. Keeping up with Honda service ensures your tires, brakes, and battery are in top shape if you need to drive in bad weather. Tornado safety starts before the storm hits, so preparing in advance is the best way to avoid damage and danger.
5. Drive Safely When Severe Weather Strikes
Storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and low visibility. If you must drive, slow down and stay alert. Keep both hands on the wheel and be ready for sudden gusts of wind. If conditions get worse, find a safe place to pull over and wait.
Follow these key steps for safer driving:
- Turn on your headlights. This helps you see and makes your car more visible to others.
- Avoid flooded roads. Even a few inches of water can sweep your car away.
- Watch for debris. Trees, signs, and power lines can fall during storms.
- Stay off bridges. High winds can make crossing dangerous.
- Leave extra space. Wet roads make it harder to stop in time.
A well-maintained car is safer in rough weather. Honda maintenance keeps your brakes, tires, and wipers in good shape. If you notice worn tires or weak wipers, visit a Honda service center before storm season. Your Pilot, Odyssey, or Accord should be ready for anything the road throws your way.
6. Assess Your Vehicle after the Storm is Over
Once a tornado has passed, check your car for damage. Look for broken glass, dents, or missing parts. If power lines are down near your vehicle, stay away and call emergency services. Do not try to drive if the car has major damage. Safety comes first.
Follow these steps to handle tornado damage:
- Take photos. Snap pictures of dents, cracks, and any missing pieces for insurance claims.
- Contact your insurance provider. Report the damage as soon as possible.
- Schedule a repair. Visit a trusted Honda repair center for an inspection.
- Check for leaks. Tornadoes can damage seals, letting water inside.
- Test your brakes and tires. Debris may have caused hidden issues.
A damaged car may need expert care before it is safe to drive again. Bring your Pilot, Odyssey, or Accord to a Honda service center for a full check-up. Honda maintenance can fix storm damage and get you back on the road with peace of mind.
7. Prepare Your Vehicle and Family for Long-Term Outages
Planning ahead can keep your family and car safe when storms hit. Tornadoes are fast and unpredictable. A strong plan helps you stay calm. First, make sure everyone knows where to go during a storm. Teach kids how to get to safety. If you must drive, know the safest routes to shelters. Avoid areas that flood.
Prepare your car before storm season. Keep up with Honda maintenance so your vehicle stays reliable. Check your tires, brakes, and battery often. Store an emergency kit in your car with:
- First-aid supplies – bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers
- Food and water – enough for three days
- Flashlights and extra batteries – in case of power loss
- A phone charger – to stay connected
- Blankets and extra clothes – for warmth
Stay alert when storms are near. Keep a weather app on your phone. Listen to alerts while driving your Pilot, Odyssey, or Accord. If a tornado is coming, get to safety fast. If your car gets damaged, seek Honda service as soon as possible. Being ready can save lives and protect your vehicle.
Common Questions About Tornadoes Protecting Your Car During a Tornado
When preparing for a tornado, it’s important to know how to stay safe in various situations. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions that can help guide your actions and decisions during a tornado.
Understanding Tornado Risks in Your Area
Tornadoes are a real threat in Dodge City, and knowing the risks is key to staying safe. The Midwest sees strong storms, and Kansas is no stranger to twisters. High winds, flying debris, and sudden changes in weather can put both lives and vehicles at risk. Even a short drive can turn dangerous if a tornado forms nearby. Staying alert and ready can help reduce damage and protect you when storms strike.
Tornado safety starts with watching the weather. Storm warnings can come fast, so check alerts before heading out. If a tornado watch is issued, be ready to act. A warning means danger is near—find shelter right away. If you’re driving, do not try to outrun a tornado. Instead, look for a safe place to stop. Parking under a bridge may seem smart, but strong winds can turn it into a trap. The safest plan is to get to a strong building or, if no shelter is near, stay low in your car with your seatbelt on and your head protected.
After a tornado, damage to roads, homes, and vehicles is common. Strong winds can dent cars, break windows, or even flip vehicles. If your car is hit, be sure to check it before driving again. Look for glass, leaks, or loose parts that may cause issues. A trusted Honda service center can inspect your car and make any needed Honda repairs to keep it safe. Regular Honda maintenance also helps ensure your vehicle is ready for rough weather. Staying informed, making smart choices, and having a plan can help keep you and your vehicle safe during tornado season.
Should I Stay in my Car During a Tornado?
No, it is not safe to stay in your car during a tornado. If you are caught in your car, drive at right angles to the tornado’s path if possible, or seek shelter in a sturdy building. If you can’t get to shelter, lie down in a low area such as a ditch and cover your head.
Is it Safe to Be in A Car During a Tornado?
No, it is not safe to be in a car during a tornado. Cars are not strong enough to withstand tornado winds, and debris can cause significant damage. It is best to avoid driving and to find shelter in a building.
When is Tornado Season in Kansas?
Tornado season in Kansas typically occurs from April to June, though tornadoes can occur outside of this timeframe. It’s important to stay alert throughout the year, especially during the spring and early summer months when tornado activity is highest.
How Should You Protect Your Car If a Tornado Occurs While Driving?
If you are driving and a tornado is approaching, your first priority should be to find shelter. If there is no building nearby, drive at a right angle to the tornado’s path, or if that’s not possible, get into a low-lying area like a ditch and cover your head. Avoid stopping under bridges or overpasses, as they can create wind tunnels and increase danger.
Find New Cars and Stay Tornado Ready at Garden City Honda
As you prepare for any severe weather, it’s important to ensure both you and your car are ready. Visit Robert Brogden’s Garden City Honda, we’re here to help you stay informed and keep your car in top condition. If you have any questions or need assistance in understanding how to protect your vehicle during a tornado, feel free to contact us. Our team is ready to provide more information and guidance on how to keep you safe in any situation.
If you’re in the Dodge City area, we invite you to explore our wide selection of vehicles, including the Honda Pilot, Honda Odyssey, and Honda Accord. These models are designed to give you peace of mind and keep your family safe, especially during challenging weather conditions. Whether you need a reliable ride for stormy weather or a comfortable family vehicle, we have you covered.
Want to learn more about other Honda vehicles? You can explore how the Honda CR-V, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Honda HR-V stack up in terms of efficiency, safety, and performance. Or, if you’re considering a sedan, check out the latest comparison between the Honda Civic and Honda Accord and discover which one suits your needs best. And, for those looking for family-friendly activities, don’t miss our guide to family fun during the holidays in Garden City, where we highlight some top activities that you and your loved ones can enjoy year-round.
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