Experts provide safety recommendations for tornado warning and flooding

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The hazards posed by storms rolling through multiple states, including Missouri, have the potential to flood roads, cause power outages and hail damage.

The pathway on the MKT Trail, located beneath Locus St. in Columbia, has been severely flooded due to heavy rainfall Sunday morning. The water level has risen to such an extent that it has completely washed over the street, leaving no visibility. 

The Missouri Department of Transportation reminds Missourians that even small amounts of moving water can be dangerous. Six inches of moving water can sweep a person off their feet and two feet of floodwater can float a car. Water moving at a speed of two miles per hour is powerful enough to sweep a car off a road or bridge.

Missouri Government officials encourage Missourians to develop a plan with their family for where to take shelter during a tornado, whether they are at home, work, or a friend's house. 

Identify a safe room such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. They also recommend ensuring your first aid kits are well-stocked with medical supplies and easily accessible. 

Educating everyone in your household on how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity, is also a good practice. Also marking utility switches or valves for quick access is encouraged. 

The Missouri Government website also says to store important documents like birth certificates, social security cards, and family photographs in a secure location away from potential damage.