30 storm shelters on Turnpike for severe weather

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April 10, 2012|By Rebecca White | KWCH 12 Eyewitness News

(WICHITA, Kan.) — State officials are reminding drivers about public storm shelters along the Kansas Turnpike.

There are nearly 30 available to drivers along the Turnpike. Most of them are in the restrooms of service area.

Click Here to See Shelter List

Smaller shelters are also available at the turnpike toll plazas. More than 20 people can fit comfortably in the smallest shelters-- more if circumstances require it.

There are no storm shelters along I-70 or any highways controlled by the Kansas Department of Transportation.

According to the National Weather Service:

Vehicles are extremely risky in a tornado. There is no safe option when caught in a tornado in a car, just slightly less-dangerous ones.

If the tornado is visible, far away, and the traffic is light, you may be able to drive out of its path by moving at right angles to the tornado.

Seek shelter in a sturdy building, or runderground if possible.

If you are caught by extreme winds or flying debris, park the car as quickly and safely as possible -- out of the traffic lanes. Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows; cover your head with your hands and a blanket, coat, or other cushion if possible.

If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway,leave your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.

Avoid seeking shelter under bridges, which can create deadly traffic hazards while offering little protection against flying debris.

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