SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/overpass-not-tornado-shelter

A tornado is coming while you're on the highway. Is hiding under an overpass safe?

No. Wind and flying debris can be worse under a bridge.

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The Just Right card

Too littlePark and wait under the overpass
Too muchKeep driving straight toward it
Just rightGet to a sturdy building if you can

Huh, didn't know that: Stopped cars under an overpass can also block the road for everyone else.

The dad joke
What did one tornado say to the other? Let's twist again like we did last summer.
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References

Answer: No, it gives little protection from wind and debris. Under a bridge, wind can squeeze through and speed up, and flying debris still gets in. Weather experts say drive to a sturdy building if you can.

  1. NWS Norman, OK: Highway Overpasses as Tornado Shelters www.weather.gov/oun/safety-overpass
    by climbing up under an overpass, people will be exposed to higher wind speeds and more flying debris.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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Test yourself in the game

How Things WorkDoes lightning ever strike the same place twice?How Things WorkYou're inside a hard-topped car in a lightning storm. What protects you?How Things WorkYou see lightning, then count 10 seconds until thunder. About how far away was it?

That's stuff everyone should know.