Wind Hazards
High Wind
- Violent down slope winds referred to as "chinooks" are common in Boulder County. These powerful winds are most common from December through May.
- Follow the same precautions for high winds that you would for tornadoes:
At home or at work:
- Go to the basement. If there is no basement, go to an interior hallway or small interior room, on the lowest floor, such as a bathroom or a closet
- Avoid windows
- Do not remain in a trailer or mobile home when high winds and strong gusts are present. Take cover in a sturdier building or in a ditch.
- If you are in a high-rise building, go to the most interior rooms or hallways
At school:
- Follow instructions of authorities/teachers.
- Stay out of structures with wide free-span roofs like auditoriums and gyms
In a car or outside:
- Seek cover in a nearby building, or lie flat in a ditch or ravine
- Avoid seeking shelter under an overpass or bridge
Tornado
Most tornadoes in Colorado occur during May, June, and July, moving from southwest to northeast, but the direction can suddenly change.
TORNADO WATCH - conditions are present for a tornado, Keep a radio/TV tuned for further information, and gather emergency supplies.
TORNADO WARNING - a tornado has been sighted or is imminent. Take shelter immediately in a sturdy building.
At home or at work:
- Go to the basement. If there is no basement, go to an interior hallway or small interior room, on the lowest floor, such as a bathroom or a closet
- Avoid windows
- Do not remain in a trailer or mobile home when high winds and strong gusts are present. Take cover in a sturdier building or in a ditch.
- If you are in a high-rise building, go to the most interior rooms or hallways
At school:
- Follow instructions of authorities/teachers.
- Stay out of structures with wide free-span roofs like auditoriums and gyms
In a car or outside:
- Seek cover in a nearby building, or lie flat in a ditch or ravine
- Avoid seeking shelter under an overpass or bridge