--- title: Tornado Preparedness Strategies for Businesses description: Ensure workplace safety during the 2026 tornado season with our essential guide on tornado preparedness. Get tips and strategies to protect your team. image: https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/calamity-clouds-dark-1446076.jpg --- - [Client Portal](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - [Employee Login](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) [![AxcetHR Solutions Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png)](https://www.axcethr.com/) - [About Us](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/) - [Corporate Philantropy](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/corporate-philanthropy/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Values and Culture](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/values-and-culture/) - [Kansas PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/kansas-peo/) - [Missouri PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/missouri-peo/) - [Careers](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [Why Choose Axcet?](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [About PEOs](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/about-peos/) - [PEO Cost](https://www.axcethr.com/peo-cost/) - [Switching PEOs](https://www.axcethr.com/switching-peos/) - [Certified PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/certified-peo/) - [HR Outsource Options](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/outsourcing-options/) - [Client Reviews](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/client-reviews/) - [PEO Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/) - [Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.axcethr.com/services/employee-benefits/) - [Payroll Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/payroll-and-tax-administration-services/) - [Workers' Comp. and Employee Safety Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) - [Expertise](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [PEO Expertise You Can Trust](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Resource Library](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/resource-library/) - [Subscribe to the Blog](https://www.axcethr.com/subscribe-to-the-latest-resources/) - [Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com) - [Schedule a Consultation](https://www.axcethr.com/schedule-consultation/) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [Client Reviews](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/client-reviews/) - [Why Choose Axcet?](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [About PEOs](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/about-peos/) - [Certified PEO](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/certified-peo/) - [Options to Outsource Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/outsourcing-options/) - [Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/) - [Complete List of Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/) - [Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.axcethr.com/services/employee-benefits/) - [Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/risk-management/) - [Payroll Administration](https://www.axcethr.com/services/payroll-and-tax-administration-services/) - [Expertise](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Expertise You Can Trust](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Resource Library](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/resource-library/) - [Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/) - [Subscribe to the Blog](https://www.axcethr.com/subscribe-to-the-latest-resources/) - [About Us](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/) - [Community Involvement](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/community-involvement/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [What We Stand For](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/what-we-stand-for/) - [Careers](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) - [Client Portal](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - [Employee Login](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) [![fuel-blog-logo](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/fuel-blog-logo.png?width=310&height=97&name=fuel-blog-logo.png)](https://blog.axcethr.com) Filter Blog by Topic - [Human Resources](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/human-resources) - [Payroll Administration](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/payroll-administration) - [Employee Safety & Risk Management](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/employee-safety-risk-management) - [Employee Benefits](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/employee-benefits) - [All about COVID-19 in the Workplace](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/covid19) - [Kansas & Missouri HR News](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/kansas-and-missouri-hr-news) - [Kansas City Interest News](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/kansas-city-interest-news) - [PEO/HRO](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/peo) - Choose Topic: - [Human Resources](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/human-resources) - Payroll Administrations - [Employee Safety & Risk Management](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/employee-safety-risk-management) - [Employee Benefits](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/employee-benefits) - [PEO](https://blog.axcethr.com/topic/peo) Play Audio Tornado Preparedness Strategies for Businesses 6:24 # Bracing for Impact: Tornado Preparedness Strategies for Businesses By [Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) on [Mar 09, 2026](https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe) 6 min read [4 Comments](https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe#comments-listing) Share this: - - - - [whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe](whatsapp://send?text=https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe) - [mailto:?subject=Tornado%20Preparedness%20Strategies%20for%20Businesses&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe](mailto:?subject=Tornado%20Preparedness%20Strategies%20for%20Businesses&body=https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe) ![calamity-clouds-dark-1446076](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/calamity-clouds-dark-1446076.jpg?quality=low&width=1054&name=calamity-clouds-dark-1446076.jpg) March 1 marks the onset of severe weather season across the central United States, bringing with it the threat of tornadoes that can cause widespread devastation. In just the past week, multiple tornadoes have been reported across several states, highlighting the critical importance of tornado preparedness in the workplace.  ## Severe Weather and Tornado Season 2026 Forecast Looking back at 2025, there were [1,558 confirmed tornadoes](https://www.accuweather.com/en/severe-weather/these-5-states-had-the-most-tornadoes-in-2025/1849592) across the U.S., surpassing the historical average of 1,200. While the 2026 tornado forecast calls for fewer tornadoes, all it takes is for one tornado to touch down in a densely populated area for the season to take a devastating turn. This reinforces the need for businesses to prioritize tornado preparedness. While no one can control the weather, every business can take proactive steps to protect employees and operations from severe weather threats. If a tornado were to strike your workplace today, would your employees know exactly where to go and what to do? Here’s how to prepare. [![inclement weather messages templates](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/6403797d-1205-45a5-97bc-f94f0e194105.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/6403797d-1205-45a5-97bc-f94f0e194105) ## Understanding Tornado Season Tornadoes can occur at any time and in any location across the U.S., but they are most frequent from March through May, a period often referred to as “Tornado Season.” During these months, not only do tornadoes occur more frequently, but their intensity is at its peak, leading to greater risks of fatalities and property damage. ### Tornado Alley Expansion In recent years, meteorologists have also observed a shift in where tornado activity is occurring. While the central plains have historically been known as “Tornado Alley,” more tornado outbreaks are now occurring farther east in what researchers call “Dixie Alley,” which includes parts of Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Arkansas and Kentucky. This broader geographic risk reinforces why businesses across much of the United States—not just the Plains—should have a tornado preparedness plan in place. ## Tornado Preparedness at Work Tornadoes often strike with little or no warning, making it crucial for businesses to implement tornado preparedness strategies that reduce the risk of [employee injuries](https://blog.axcethr.com/workplace-safety-risk-management)or fatalities. ### **Develop a Tornado Preparedness Plan** Many businesses lack a comprehensive tornado preparedness plan, leaving them vulnerable in an emergency. A well-structured disaster preparedness plan not only enhances safety but also minimizes legal risks associated with workplace injuries. Consider the following when developing your plan: - Designate a **tornado shelter area** within your building, such as a small, windowless interior room or hallway on the lowest level. -  For businesses operating in **multi-story buildings**, employees should be directed to move to the lowest interior floor possible and avoid elevators during severe weather events.  - Ensure employees stay **away from doors, windows and exterior walls**. - Avoid large open areas like auditoriums or cafeterias, which are more prone to collapse. - Provide alternative sheltering guidance for **outdoor workers**, including seeking underground shelters or sturdy buildings immediately upon a tornado warning. - Establish **clear communication protocols** to notify employees of severe weather threats. - Understand **how your local community warning system works**, ensuring employees do not rely solely on sirens but have access to multiple alert methods. - Tornado preparedness planning should also be incorporated into broader business continuity planning so companies can resume operations safely and efficiently after severe weather events. ### **Select a Safe Place**  Know where employees will go in all situations. While the safest place is in an underground tornado shelter or basement, sometimes it’s not an option. According to the [Red Cross](https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/tornado.html), other places to go when a tornado warning has been issued include: - The **lowest level of the building**, preferably a basement or underground shelter - A **small interior room**, such as a bathroom, storage room or hallway - Areas **away from windows, glass and exterior walls** - Taking cover **under sturdy furniture** if available - Using **mattresses, blankets or coats** to protect the head and neck from flying debris Employees should also be instructed to protect their heads and necks and remain in shelter until the tornado warning has expired or officials confirm the threat has passed. ### **Conduct Regularly Scheduled Tornado Drills** A tornado preparedness plan is only effective if employees know how to follow it. Conduct regular tornado drills to familiarize employees with emergency procedures, including: - Recognizing the tornado alarm system. - Knowing the designated shelter location. - Practicing a safe and orderly evacuation process. **RELATED:** [When Disaster Strikes, Eight Steps to Prepare Your Business >>](https://blog.axcethr.com/when-disaster-strikes-8-steps-to-prepare-your-business) ### Recognizing Tornado Warning Signs and Conditions Even with modern weather tracking technology, tornadoes can form rapidly. Employees should be trained to recognize potential tornado signs, including: - Dark, often greenish-colored sky - Wall cloud - Cloud of debris - Large hail or heavy rain followed by a dead calm - Funnel cloud (visible rotation in the cloud base) - Roaring noise - Rapidly rotating, low-hanging clouds  ****[![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/43bfc70d-ea9c-489b-bfd8-6bab06a0a717.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/43bfc70d-ea9c-489b-bfd8-6bab06a0a717)**** ### **Monitor the Local Weather** Monitoring severe weather conditions in real-time is essential. Businesses should: - Rely on **the National Weather Service (NWS) and local news** for tornado watches and warnings. - Use a **primary and backup communication method** (e.g., text alerts, emails, or emergency intercom systems) to keep employees informed. - In addition to local news and weather radio alerts, many organizations now rely on mobile emergency alerts through smartphone systems such as Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA).  These alerts are issued automatically by authorized government agencies and can provide critical warning messages even when employees are not actively monitoring weather updates. Understanding tornado alerts is also key: - #### **Tornado Watch** Conditions are favorable for tornado development. Stay alert and monitor weather updates. - #### **Tornado Warning** A tornado has been sighted or detected by radar. Take shelter immediately. ### **Understand How Your Local Community Warning System Works** While community warning systems help to alert of a possible tornado, sirens should never be the sole warning system used by your workplace. [![Natural Disasters and Family and Medical Leave Act Leave](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/38136951-470e-4441-a588-d78c72c1ed53.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/38136951-470e-4441-a588-d78c72c1ed53) ## What to Do After a Tornado Once the tornado has passed, businesses must act swiftly to ensure employee safety and assess damage. Key steps include: - ### **Gather in a Safe Spot** Once the tornado has passed, employees should know where to gather and how you will communicate with them. - ### **Complete a Headcount** Use a roster or checklist to account for employees, customers and/or visitors. - ### **Check Employees for Injuries** If a worker is severely injured, seek medical assistance immediately. Never move a severely injured person unless they would be in severe danger of further injuries if not moved. - ### **Continue to Monitor the Local News and Weather** - ### Wear Protective Gear Always wear adequate protective gear when handling or moving through debris. - ### **Be on the Alert for the Smell of Gas** Report possible broken gas lines to the utility company immediately. - ### **Watch Out for Fallen Power Lines** Downed power lines may still be energized and extremely dangerous. Employees should stay far away and report them immediately to local authorities or utility companies. - ### **Stay Out of Damaged Buildings** - ### **Photograph Damage for Insurance Claims** ## Workplace Safety [According to OSHA](https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/osha3021.pdf), employers are responsible for providing a workplace free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Severe weather events—including tornadoes—can present foreseeable workplace hazards, making emergency preparedness planning an important part of an employer’s safety responsibilities. ## Safeguard Your Workplace with Expert Risk Management Solutions Severe weather poses an ongoing risk to any workplace environment. However, with Axcet's specialized expertise in risk management, you can ensure the safety of your employees. Our team of [safety and risk management consultants](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) is equipped to assist you in creating comprehensive fire and tornado drill plans. Not only that, but we will actively collaborate with you to conduct practice drills, ensuring preparedness for any emergency. Prioritize the well-being of your workforce by partnering with Axcet. Discover how our expert PEO solutions can protect your workplace; [schedule a consultation](https://www.axcethr.com/schedule-consultation/) today. [![Axcet HR Solutions Meet the Team Footer](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2652187/b910adbe-bb44-49ba-950c-d66852b283e0.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2652187/b910adbe-bb44-49ba-950c-d66852b283e0) [![Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/_DSC9345-Edit.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=_DSC9345-Edit.jpg)](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) Written by #### [Sam Hihn](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) Sam Hihn is a Safety and Health Consultant at Axcet HR Solutions, where he helps businesses build safer, more compliant workplaces through practical, hands-on risk management strategies. He works closely with client organizations to identify hazards, strengthen safety practices, and implement programs that protect employees while supporting operational efficiency. Sam partners directly with business leaders and frontline teams to assess workplace environments, equipment, and processes, ensuring alignment with OSHA standards and other regulatory requirements. He develops customized safety and health programs tailored to each organization's needs and provides guidance through OSHA inspections, citation responses, and corrective action planning—helping clients navigate compliance with clarity and confidence. A key part of Sam's work is translating complex safety requirements into clear, actionable steps. He conducts safety training, supports incident investigations to determine root causes, and delivers practical recommendations to prevent future issues. His approach focuses not only on meeting regulatory standards but on building sustainable safety practices that become part of everyday operations. With a background in manufacturing and safety roles, Sam brings real-world perspective to the challenges employers face. He is known for his approachable style, attention to detail, and commitment to helping teams take ownership of workplace safety. Through his writing, Sam shares actionable insights and guidance to help employers reduce risk, improve compliance, and create safer environments where employees can thrive. Read more [View all posts →](https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn) ### Get HR Updates ### Table of Contents ### Related Resources - [services Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) - [services workplace safety](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/workplace-safety/) #### [Tornado Procedures in the Workplace: Can You Force Employees to Stay? ![tornado procedures in the workplace](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/Sam-Hihn_-Axcet-Health-_-Safety-Consultant-_1200-x-628-px_%20(1).webp)](https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-warnings-can-you-make-employees-stay-at-work-and-shelter) #### [![Axcet's HR Experts discuss the difference between a CPEO vs PEO](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/what-is-a-certified-peo-jo-mcclure-Axcet-HR%20(1).webp) CPEO vs PEO: A Side-by-Side Comparison](https://blog.axcethr.com/cpeo-vs-peo) ## Let us know what you think... ![AxcetHR Blog](https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/AxcetHR2021%20Blog/axcethr_logo_white%20(1).png) - [Why Axcet](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/) - [What We Stand For](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/what-we-stand-for/) - [Expertise](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.axcethr.com/services/employee-benefits/) - [Human Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/services/human-resources/) - [Payroll Services](https://www.axcethr.com/services/payroll-and-tax-administration-services/) - [Risk Management](https://www.axcethr.com/services/workers-comp-and-employee-safety-risk-management/) - [Meet the Team](https://www.axcethr.com/about-us/meet-the-team/) - [Subscribe to Latest Resources](https://www.axcethr.com/subscribe-to-the-latest-resources/) - [Resource Library](https://www.axcethr.com/expertise/resource-library/) - [\[ Client Portal \]](https://www.axcethr.com/client-services/) - - - - - Search for: Copyright © 2023 Axcet HR Solutions – Kansas City's PEO Since 1988 | [Privacy Policy](https://www.axcethr.com/privacy-policy/) | [Terms and Conditions](https://www.axcethr.com/terms-conditions/) | [**Join our Team – Careers »**](https://axcethrsolutions.prismhr-hire.com/) 10975 Grandview Drive Suite 200, Corporate Woods Building 27, Overland Park, KS 66210 | Call us: 913-383-2999 *The IRS does not endorse any particular For more information on [certified professional employer organizations](https://www.axcethr.com/why-axcet/certified-peo/), go to [www.irs.gov](https://www.irs.gov).* Remove cookies ![](https://dc.ads.linkedin.com/collect/?pid=43031&fmt=gif) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Sam Hihn", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-18T02:44:39.592Z", "datePublished" : "2026-03-09T12:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "Tornado Preparedness Strategies for Businesses", "image" : [ "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/calamity-clouds-dark-1446076.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/hubfs/_logo_axcethr_primary.png" }, "name" : "Axcet HR Solutions" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://www.axcethr.com/#organization", "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Kansas City", "addressRegion" : "MO" }, "aggregateRating" : { "@type" : "AggregateRating", "bestRating" : "5", "ratingValue" : "5", "reviewCount" : "100" }, "areaServed" : { "@type" : "Country", "name" : "United States" }, "award" : [ "IRS Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO)", "Award-Winning HR Solutions Provider", "SHRM Certified HR Professionals", "HRCI Certified HR Professionals" ], "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "US", "availableLanguage" : "English", "contactType" : "Customer Service" }, "description" : "Award-winning Professional Employer Organization (PEO) providing comprehensive HR solutions, payroll services, employee benefits, and risk management to small and mid-sized businesses. Founded in Kansas City in 1988 with 35+ years of expertise.", "foundingDate" : "1988", "foundingLocation" : { "@type" : "Place", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Kansas City", "addressRegion" : "MO" } }, "hasOfferCatalog" : { "@type" : "OfferCatalog", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "Offer", "itemOffered" : { "@type" : "Service", "description" : "Comprehensive HR management services including recruitment, retention, performance management, and company culture development", "name" : "Human Resources Management" } }, { "@type" : "Offer", "itemOffered" : { "@type" : "Service", "description" : "Accurate payroll processing and payroll tax filing with dedicated payroll consultants", "name" : "Payroll Processing" } }, { "@type" : "Offer", "itemOffered" : { "@type" : "Service", "description" : "Group employee benefits management including health insurance evaluation, selection, and administration", "name" : "Employee Benefits Administration" } }, { "@type" : "Offer", "itemOffered" : { "@type" : "Service", "description" : "Workplace safety compliance and risk management solutions", "name" : "Risk Management" } }, { "@type" : "Offer", "itemOffered" : { "@type" : "Service", "description" : "Employment law compliance, regulatory reporting, and guidance from employment law attorneys", "name" : "HR Compliance & Legal Support" } } ], "name" : "HR Solutions Services" }, "keywords" : "PEO, Professional Employer Organization, HR Solutions, Human Resources Outsourcing, Payroll Services, Employee Benefits, Kansas City PEO, Small Business HR, Mid-Sized Business HR, HR Consulting, IRS Certified PEO, CPEO", "knowsAbout" : [ "Human Resources Management", "Professional Employer Organization", "PEO Services", "Payroll Processing", "Employee Benefits Administration", "Risk Management", "HR Compliance", "Health Plan Management", "Talent Recruitment", "Performance Management", "Workplace Safety", "Employment Law Compliance" ], "legalName" : "Axcet HR Solutions", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.axcethr.com/wp-content/uploads/axcet-logo.png" }, "memberOf" : { "@type" : "Organization", "name" : "IRS Certified Professional Employer Organizations" }, "name" : "Axcet HR Solutions", "numberOfEmployees" : { "@type" : "QuantitativeValue", "value" : "50-200" }, "sameAs" : [ "https://blog.axcethr.com" ], "slogan" : "HR Support That Drives Success", "url" : "https://www.axcethr.com" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe#article", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "alternativeHeadline" : "March 1 marks the onset of severe weather season across the false", "articleBody" : "March 1 marks the onset of severe weather season across the central United States, bringing with it the threat of tornadoes that can cause widespread devastation. In just the past week, multiple tornadoes have been reported across several states, highlighting the critical importance of tornado preparedness in the workplace. Severe Weather and Tornado Season 2026 Forecast Looking back at 2025, there were 1,558 confirmed tornadoes across the U.S., surpassing the historical average of 1,200. While the 2026 tornado forecast calls for fewer tornadoes, all it takes is for one tornado to touch down in a densely populated area for the season to take a devastating turn. This reinforces the need for businesses to prioritize tornado preparedness. While no one can control the weather, every business can take proactive steps to protect employees and operations from severe weather threats. If a tornado were to strike your workplace today, would your employees know exactly where to go and what to do? Here’s how to prepare. Understanding Tornado Season Tornadoes can occur at any time and in any location across the U.S., but they are most frequent from March through May, a period often referred to as “Tornado Season.” During these months, not only do tornadoes occur more frequently, but their intensity is at its peak, leading to greater risks of fatalities and property damage. Tornado Alley Expansion In recent years, meteorologists have also observed a shift in where tornado activity is occurring. While the central plains have historically been known as “Tornado Alley,” more tornado outbreaks are now occurring farther east in what researchers call “Dixie Alley,” which includes parts of Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Arkansas and Kentucky. This broader geographic risk reinforces why businesses across much of the United States—not just the Plains—should have a tornado preparedness plan in place. Tornado Preparedness at Work Tornadoes often strike with little or no warning, making it crucial for businesses to implement tornado preparedness strategies that reduce the risk of employee injuries or fatalities. Develop a Tornado Preparedness Plan Many businesses lack a comprehensive tornado preparedness plan, leaving them vulnerable in an emergency. A well-structured disaster preparedness plan not only enhances safety but also minimizes legal risks associated with workplace injuries. Consider the following when developing your plan: Designate a tornado shelter area within your building, such as a small, windowless interior room or hallway on the lowest level. For businesses operating in multi-story buildings, employees should be directed to move to the lowest interior floor possible and avoid elevators during severe weather events. Ensure employees stay away from doors, windows and exterior walls. Avoid large open areas like auditoriums or cafeterias, which are more prone to collapse. Provide alternative sheltering guidance for outdoor workers, including seeking underground shelters or sturdy buildings immediately upon a tornado warning. Establish clear communication protocols to notify employees of severe weather threats. Understand how your local community warning system works, ensuring employees do not rely solely on sirens but have access to multiple alert methods. Tornado preparedness planning should also be incorporated into broader business continuity planning so companies can resume operations safely and efficiently after severe weather events. Select a Safe Place Know where employees will go in all situations. While the safest place is in an underground tornado shelter or basement, sometimes it’s not an option. According to the Red Cross, other places to go when a tornado warning has been issued include: The lowest level of the building, preferably a basement or underground shelter A small interior room, such as a bathroom, storage room or hallway Areas away from windows, glass and exterior walls Taking cover under sturdy furniture if available Using mattresses, blankets or coats to protect the head and neck from flying debris Employees should also be instructed to protect their heads and necks and remain in shelter until the tornado warning has expired or officials confirm the threat has passed. Conduct Regularly Scheduled Tornado Drills A tornado preparedness plan is only effective if employees know how to follow it. Conduct regular tornado drills to familiarize employees with emergency procedures, including: Recognizing the tornado alarm system. Knowing the designated shelter location. Practicing a safe and orderly evacuation process. RELATED: When Disaster Strikes, Eight Steps to Prepare Your Business >> Recognizing Tornado Warning Signs and Conditions Even with modern weather tracking technology, tornadoes can form rapidly. Employees should be trained to recognize potential tornado signs, including: Dark, often greenish-colored sky Wall cloud Cloud of debris Large hail or heavy rain followed by a dead calm Funnel cloud (visible rotation in the cloud base) Roaring noise Rapidly rotating, low-hanging clouds Monitor the Local Weather Monitoring severe weather conditions in real-time is essential. Businesses should: Rely on the National Weather Service (NWS) and local news for tornado watches and warnings. Use a primary and backup communication method (e.g., text alerts, emails, or emergency intercom systems) to keep employees informed. In addition to local news and weather radio alerts, many organizations now rely on mobile emergency alerts through smartphone systems such as Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). These alerts are issued automatically by authorized government agencies and can provide critical warning messages even when employees are not actively monitoring weather updates. Understanding tornado alerts is also key: Tornado Watch Conditions are favorable for tornado development. Stay alert and monitor weather updates. Tornado Warning A tornado has been sighted or detected by radar. Take shelter immediately. Understand How Your Local Community Warning System Works While community warning systems help to alert of a possible tornado, sirens should never be the sole warning system used by your workplace. What to Do After a Tornado Once the tornado has passed, businesses must act swiftly to ensure employee safety and assess damage. Key steps include: Gather in a Safe Spot Once the tornado has passed, employees should know where to gather and how you will communicate with them. Complete a Headcount Use a roster or checklist to account for employees, customers and/or visitors. Check Employees for Injuries If a worker is severely injured, seek medical assistance immediately. Never move a severely injured person unless they would be in severe danger of further injuries if not moved. Continue to Monitor the Local News and Weather Wear Protective Gear Always wear adequate protective gear when handling or moving through debris. Be on the Alert for the Smell of Gas Report possible broken gas lines to the utility company immediately. Watch Out for Fallen Power Lines Downed power lines may still be energized and extremely dangerous. Employees should stay far away and report them immediately to local authorities or utility companies. Stay Out of Damaged Buildings Photograph Damage for Insurance Claims Workplace Safety According to OSHA, employers are responsible for providing a workplace free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Severe weather events—including tornadoes—can present foreseeable workplace hazards, making emergency preparedness planning an important part of an employer’s safety responsibilities. Safeguard Your Workplace with Expert Risk Management Solutions Severe weather poses an ongoing risk to any workplace environment. However, with Axcet's specialized expertise in risk management, you can ensure the safety of your employees. Our team of safety and risk management consultants is equipped to assist you in creating comprehensive fire and tornado drill plans. Not only that, but we will actively collaborate with you to conduct practice drills, ensuring preparedness for any emergency. Prioritize the well-being of your workforce by partnering with Axcet. Discover how our expert PEO solutions can protect your workplace; schedule a consultation today.", "author" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn#author", "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Sam Hihn", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/author/sam-hihn" }, "dateCreated" : "2026-03-09", "dateModified" : "2026-09-18", "datePublished" : "2026-03-09", "description" : "March 1 marks the onset of severe weather season across the central United States, bringing with it the threat of tornadoes that can cause widespread devastation. In just the past week, multiple tornadoes have been reported across several states, highlighting the critical importance of tornado preparedness in the workplace. Severe ...", "editor" : "Sam Hihn", "genre" : "Human Resources and Employee Management", "headline" : "Tornado Preparedness Strategies for Businesses", "image" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/2652187/calamity-clouds-dark-1446076.jpg", "keywords" : "Workers' Comp & Safety, Risk Management, disaster preparedness, Workplace Safety, tornado safety, kansas tornado season, severe weather safety in the workplace, tornado preparedness, Employee Safety & Risk Management", "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@id" : "https://www.axcethr.com/#organization", "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/axcethr_logo_white.png?width=225&name=axcethr_logo_white.png" }, "name" : "Axcet HR Solutions" }, "url" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe", "wordCount" : "8349" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://www.axcethr.com/", "name" : "Home", "position" : 1 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://insights.axcethr.com/", "name" : "Insights", "position" : 2 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://insights.axcethr.com/tag/workers-comp-safety", "name" : "Workers' Comp & Safety", "position" : 3 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://blog.axcethr.com/tornado-preparedness-in-the-workplace-keeping-employees-safe", "name" : "Tornado Preparedness Strategies for Businesses", "position" : 4 } ] } ```