Tornadoes possible as Middle Tennessee braces for severe storms tonight and Tuesday night

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – We’re starting the week with back to back First Alert Weather Days. The first one is tonight, Monday April 27, with another round of storms expected Tuesday night.

Both rounds bring a risk for damaging wind gusts greater than 60mph, hail larger than quarters, and tornadoes.

Damaging straight line wind will be the most widespread threat both nights. For Monday night the tornado threat is higher, with a lower risk for tornadoes.

By Tuesday night, the setup shifts slightly. Damaging wind remains the dominant hazard, but the risk for hail increases compared to tonight’s storms.

No matter which threat materializes, now is the time to prepare. Take a few minutes to secure any loose outdoor items that could be blown around in strong wind. If you have vehicles or outdoor furniture, consider ways to protect them from potential hail damage.

It’s also a good idea to review your severe weather safety plan and make sure you have multiple ways to receive warnings.

It’s important to prioritize tools that can wake you up if you decide to go to sleep.

A NOAA weather radio is a great resource. First Alert Meteorologist Dan Thomas has step by step instructions to help program your NOAA Weather Radio. The process takes a few minutes and allows you to receive weather watches and warnings issued for your area.

The WSMV4 First Alert Weather App can alert you before trouble arrives. Download the WSMV 4 First Alert Weather app for iPhone or Android. Make sure you have ‘locations’ and ‘notifications’ turned on when using a weather app.

Knowing where to go before a tornado warning is issued — at home or at work — can make a critical difference.

Three factors can help guide that decision.

Think windowless

The first step is finding an interior room without windows. A hallway, bathroom or closet can all serve as shelter options.

Think low

A basement is the preferred location, but if one is not available, move to the lowest level of the home or business. Sheltering under a stairwell provides extra protection, as does taking cover under a sturdy piece of furniture.

Think small

Putting as many walls as possible between you and the storm increases safety. A windowless closet or interior bathroom is among the best available options.

Blankets, pillows or a helmet can be brought to the shelter location to provide additional protection from the storm and flying debris.

Mobile homes and cars do not offer protection during a tornado. Anyone in either should seek a conventionally constructed building — a neighbor’s home, a family member’s house or a nearby business.