Storms and tornado warnings in Dallas–Fort Worth, TX: how do I stay informed and prepared?

Storms can build quickly in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. It helps to know the alert words and to get ready early.

A tornado watch means conditions are right for tornadoes to form. Stay alert and be ready to act. A tornado warning means a tornado is happening or about to happen near you. Take shelter right away. [1]

The National Weather Service office for Fort Worth and Dallas issues local forecasts, watches and warnings for the region. Check its site for the latest conditions in your county. [1]

To get alerts on your phone: 1. Open your phone's settings and make sure emergency alerts are turned on. [2] 2. Look on Ready.gov for other ways to receive alerts. [2] 3. Your city or county may have its own alert sign-up. This differs from place to place, so check your local government's site. [2]

To prepare, Ready.gov suggests these steps: 1. Make a plan with your household. Decide where to shelter and how to reach each other. [2] 2. Pick a safe room on the lowest floor, away from windows, such as an inside room or closet. [2] 3. Build an emergency kit with items like water, food, a flashlight and batteries. [2]

Ready.gov has full checklists for plans and kits. The National Weather Service site is the place to watch when storms are coming. [1][2]

Sources [1] National Weather Service, Fort Worth/Dallas office: https://www.weather.gov/fwd/ [2] Ready.gov (FEMA): https://www.ready.gov/