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Tornadoes

A dark stormy sky with a visible tornado funnel cloud forming.

In the Colorado Front Range, tornados have been reported nine months of the year, and the peak season for tornados extends from mid-May through mid- August. June is by far the month with the most recorded tornados. Tornadoes have occurred every time of the day, with over half of them developing between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., and 88% occurring between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. MDT. They also occur statewide, but by far the largest numbers develop east of I-25.

If a Warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches:

  • If you are in a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement.
  • If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
  • Stay away from windows.
  • Get out of automobiles.
  • Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately.
  • Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned