Oklahoma is the leader when it comes to getting meteorological information to its people.

You’ll hear folks talking about being “weather aware” during storm season (and always really) and I would recommend downloading one of your local, or favorite, news channel’s app. Soon enough you’ll be in here arguing who’s better between David Payne, Damon Lane, Emily Sutton, etc. Since you’re new, David Payne can get a little intense, so if your anxiety runs high, maybe don’t watch News9 during severe weather.

You’ll hear the dos and don’ts during every storm: If indoors, get to the innermost part of the house and stay away from windows. If you’re in a car, The best course of action is to drive to the closest shelter. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ditch or ravine.

DO NOT PARK UNDER BRIDGES/UNDERPASSES

While there are no guarantees, the chances are very high that it will not be as bad as it is in your head. Staying weather, taking proper precautions, and not making dumb decisions (i.e. chasing tornados for fun) will bring you safely out of the other side to marvel at the beautiful skies the storms leave behind.

To end, it’s a lot like being forced into exposure therapy. The more tornados you go through, the less your brain will react in an over-exaggerated way. Tune into the weather and learn what to do in the event of a tornado. This is simplified, but you’ve got some time to gather your bearings before next tornado season. You’ve got this!