Houston, We Have a Tornado!

Oh, dear Houston! It seems like every time we turn around, there's another twister tearing through our beloved city. Just last week, a nasty EF3 tornado ripped through the Heights, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. And who can forget the infamous Tax Day tornado of 2017, which wreaked havoc across downtown? It's enough to make even the bravest among us tremble.

But hey, let's not despair just yet. After all, we're Houstonians! We're a resilient bunch who have weathered countless storms before. And while tornadoes can be downright terrifying, there are a few things we can do to stay safe and minimize damage.

• First off, it's crucial to have a plan in place. Know where you're going to go if the tornado sirens blare. Your safest bet is to head to an interior room on the lowest level of your home, away from windows. If you're in a public building, follow the instructions of the staff and seek shelter in a designated area.

• Secondly, stay informed. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and listen to local news and weather updates. If there's a tornado watch, be prepared to take cover at a moment's notice. And if you hear the tornado sirens or see a tornado funnel, don't hesitate – seek shelter immediately!

Of course, things don't always go according to plan. If you find yourself caught in a tornado, do your best to protect yourself. If you're in a car, pull over to the side of the road and lie down in a ditch or low-lying area. If you're on foot, find a sturdy shelter and hunker down. And whatever you do, don't try to outrun a tornado. It's simply too dangerous.

After the tornado has passed, it's important to check yourself and your loved ones for injuries. If you see any downed power lines or gas leaks, report them immediately. And don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Oh, and one last thing – don't panic! Panicking will only make things worse. Stay calm, stay informed, and stay safe. Together, we'll get through this, Houston. We always do.