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What Are the Immediate Steps After a Tornado Hits Your Home?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First

Your safety comes before anything else. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call for medical help right away. Do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger. Keep a first aid kit nearby and know how to use it. If you have children or pets, account for them as well.

Watch for hazards like broken glass, exposed nails, or unstable structures. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, turn off the gas valve if you can do so safely. Leave the house if the structure feels unsafe. Also, beware of falling debris and sharp objects. Wear sturdy shoes and gloves if you need to move around.

Shut off Utilities

If you suspect a gas leak, shut off the gas at the main valve. Do not use light switches or appliances until you are sure the gas is off. Water damage often follows a tornado, so locate your water shutoff valve and turn it off to prevent flooding from broken pipes. Knowing where these valves are before an emergency can save valuable time.

Keep your shutoff valve location written down and share it with family members. Power lines may be down, so treat every wire as live. Avoid standing water where downed lines might be submerged. If you see a downed line, stay at least 10 feet away and report it to the utility company.

  • Turn off gas if you smell it or hear a hiss
  • Shut off water at the main valve
  • Avoid all downed power lines
  • Do not use electrical switches until safe
  • Keep a flashlight handy, not candles

Document the Damage

Once it is safe, take photos and videos of all damage. Capture the exterior and interior, including water stains, broken windows, and damaged walls. This documentation helps with your insurance claim. Also, photograph any personal belongings that were affected, such as furniture or electronics.

Make a written list of damaged items, including furniture and appliances. Note the approximate age and value of each item. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand what you need to report. Keep a copy of this list for your records.

Prevent Further Water Damage

Tornadoes often tear off roofs or break windows, letting rain in. Cover holes with tarps or plywood if you can do so safely. Move furniture and valuables to a dry area, and remove wet carpets or rugs to prevent mold growth. Use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out the space if you have power.

If water has soaked into drywall or flooring, the pros can help with cleanup and repairs. For example, local water damage pros can handle water-damaged flooring removal and drywall repair. Act quickly, as mold can start within a day or two. Even a few hours of drying can make a difference.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. Provide your policy number and the photos you took. Ask about temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable, and keep receipts for any emergency repairs. Write down the name of the person you speak with and the time of the call.

The insurance adjuster will schedule a visit to assess the damage. Until then, do not throw away damaged items that could be inspected. If you need help with cleanup, local water damage pros can assist with flood cleanup and attic restoration. Their work usually involves drying, sanitizing, and repairing structural damage.

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Call (559) 272-9793 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

How soon after a tornado should I start cleaning up?

Start cleanup as soon as it is safe, but first document the damage. Remove wet items and dry the area to prevent mold. The pros can help with heavy cleanup, but you can begin by moving furniture and opening windows.

What should I do if I smell gas after a tornado?

Leave the house immediately and call the gas company from outside. Do not turn on lights or use your phone indoors. Shut off the gas valve only if you can reach it without risk, and wait for a professional to check the lines.

Can I handle water damage repairs myself?

Small spills you can dry yourself, but major water damage often needs professional help. The pros have equipment to dry walls and floors thoroughly, and they know how to prevent mold. For large areas, call the pros.

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