How to shelter in place in an apartment during severe storms

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Monday is an ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Weather Alert Day for all of Mid-Missouri. Wind, hail and tornadoes are all possible Monday afternoon and evening.

Basements are go-to places in severe weather but where do people without a basement or storm cellar take cover?

Jake Waller, deputy director at the Boone County Office of Emergency Management, said people should first try to get to the ground floor, if possible. This could include in an apartment building or in a complex community area, such as the clubhouse.

"Most apartment complexes will have a utility area with the washer and the dryer on the first floor, that would be a great place to go," Waller said. "Something interior, something as low as they can get."

If the ground floor isn't an option, the American Red Cross said bathrooms or closets without windows are the best place to be.

"Take a look at where you're at, you are in a fairly sturdy structure with walls and floors, but go to the interior of the building," said Rebecca Gordon, executive director at the American Red Cross Central and Northern Missouri Chapter. "Find a bathroom, something that does not have windows so that you can protect yourself."

ABC 17 News contacted more than ten apartment complexes in Columbia on Monday. Most said they recommend residents seek shelter in their bathroom or closet. Only one complex, Katy Place, said it has storm shelters available for its residents.

Waller said people sheltering from storms should also have a pillow, mattress or heavy blanket to cover and protect their head from any debris.

He said it's also important families have a plan for what to do in the event of severe weather.

"It's critical. Taking those nice days to just take 15-20 minutes to think through 'What would I do if a thunderstorm might come through, or a tornado, or a flood or something like that,'" Waller said. "Pre-planning prevents a lot of hasty decisions that might lead to a less-than-optimal decision."

ABC 17 News previously reported on public storm shelter locations in the Mid-Missouri area. Neither Boone or Cole counties have publicly advertised shelters. Findyourtornadoshelter.com is a resource that can be used to find tornado shelters in the area.

The Boone County Office of Emergency Management also suggests having disaster supplies on hand, including:

• Battery-operated radio
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• Emergency food and water
• Prescription medications
• Cash and credit cards
• Sturdy shoes