Nicole could create tornadoes in SC, forecast shows. Signs a twister is coming and what to do

Tropical Storm Nicole is expected to generate some tornadoes in the South Carolina Midlands later this week, so it might be prudent to know signs a twister is imminent and what to do during and after one.

Nicole is projected to reach hurricane strength Wednesday evening before reaching the Florida coast and turning up toward Georgia and South Carolina, according to the National Hurricane Center.

A recent post from the National Weather Service Columbia states that the greatest threats to the area are a few tornadoes, mainly from Thursday night and Friday morning. Other threats include winds upwards of 30-45 mph, with isolated gusts of 40 mph. Heavy rainfall of between 1-3 inches is also expected.

Unlike hurricanes, tornadoes give less warning time and yet can be just as dangerous and devastating. However, beyond emergency weather alerts, there are signs of forming tornadoes to watch for, along with steps to take during and immediately after a tornado, according to the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.

Tornado signs

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information.

• Look for approaching storms.

• Watch out for the danger signs like a dark, often greenish sky, large hail, a large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating) or a loud roar that’s similar to a freight train. If you see any of these danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

During a tornado

• If you are under a tornado warning, take shelter immediately.

• Get indoors to a shelter area like a basement, storm cellar or the lowest level of a building. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls.

• Shutter windows and outside doors.

• If you are in a vehicle, trailer or mobile home, get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building.

• If you’re unable to get indoors, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands.

• Never try to outrun a tornado in your vehicle. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately and seek shelter.

After a tornado

• Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

• Avoid downed power lines and report them to the local utility company.

• Stay out of damaged buildings.