GLITTARAZZI

Tornados, they're the natural disaster of 2011.

This year's tornado season has been the deadliest in more than 50 years and, while they're primarily known for striking in the Midwest, they've been spotted in other parts of the country, including Northern California and Brooklyn.

Lucky for you, we here at Glitarazzi HQ suffer from a fear of out-of-control weather and are constantly up-to-date on what to do in case of extreme conditions.

So, we've compiled some helpful hints on how to survive a tornado:

• Be aware of the situation.
  If you live in an area prone to tornado and weather conditions, look for formation (a dark or green-colored sky, large dark and low-lying clouds, large hail). If a "tornado watch" is announced, it means to be on the lookout, but if “tornado warning” is given – that means one has been spotted and you need to seek shelter immediately. Some areas will use an air horn system to alert people of a tornado watch. Be sure to know if there's such a system where you live.

• Take shelter.
  The best place to be in a tornado is a windowless basement or cellar. Be sure to keep some supplies in the one at your house in case you have to stay for a while. Food, water, a first-aid kit, and a hand-crank powered radio are absolute musts. Something to help pass the time (board games, books, etc.) also couldn't hurt in case you're down there a while. Stay until the tornado watch is lifted.

• If you can't get to a basement:
  Get away from windows and get under something sturdy like a heavy table that can protect you from falling debris.  Try to cover yourself with a heavy blanket and be sure to sure to protect your head.  Try to avoid seeking shelter in a long-span building like a mall or theater; they can easily collapse if a wall is severely damaged. 

• DO NOT:
  
  • Try to out run a tornado in your car. Get out of your car and find the nearest possible shelter.
  • Stay in a mobile home. Get out and find the nearest possible shelter.

• If you're caught in an open field when a tornado hits:
  Get away from trees, cars, or anything else that can become thrown around debris.  Lie flat in a ditch and cover your head.

For more info, we recommend checking out the guides put together by the CDC and Harvard Medical School.