OZ FIELD GUIDE / 02 / WEATHER
Severe weather
Read the specific warning. The right shelter depends on the hazard.
THE QUICK ANSWER
Identify the warning for your exact location and act on it now. For a tornado warning, go to a basement or a small interior room on the lowest level, away from windows, and protect your head. For flood danger, move to higher ground and do not enter water. Different hazards require different shelter choices.
In immediate danger, contact local emergency services. Current instructions for your location take priority.
01 / DO NOW
First moves.
- 01
Read the warning
Use local alerts, the National Weather Service, or a weather radio. Check the hazard, affected area, timing, and the action given.
- 02
Choose shelter for the threat
For tornadoes, move to the lowest interior space in a sturdy building. For flooding, move away from low ground and use the flooding guide. For lightning, go indoors and stay away from windows and plumbing.
- 03
Bring the essentials
Take shoes, a flashlight, phone, charged battery, medication, and the people and pets with you. Do not delay sheltering to collect a full kit.
- 04
Wait for the all-clear
A lull does not mean danger is over. Recheck official messages before traveling or inspecting damage.
02 / NEXT
When the first minute is over.
After the warning, avoid downed lines, unstable structures, and flooded roads. Check on others when safe. Review your shelter location and alert settings before the next event.
03 / WATCH FOR
The exception that matters.
A watch means conditions are possible; a warning means the threat is occurring or imminent in the warned area. Do not use a single generic storm plan for tornado, flood, heat, and winter weather.
04 / VERIFY
Sources & context.
Osprey Zero wrote this guide from the references below. It is a general starting point, not a live alert. Check the issuing authority for your area; guidance and conditions can change.
Guide updated 02 October 2026. U.S.-based references unless noted; follow authorities where you are.