Tornado Safety In A High-rise

If there is a threat of a tornado in your area and you are in a high-rise building, there are several things you can do to protect yourself:

• Take cover in a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level.
• Do not use an elevator.
• If there isn't a basement, you can go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level. A closet or interior hallway is your best bet.
• Stay away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Remember, put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
• Then, get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.
• Do not open any windows.   

According to the Department of Energy, high rise buildings will generally sustain severe window damage. Once the wind gets inside, there can be severe damage to offices and apartments near the windows. 

Most tall buildings are engineered with strong enough foundations and steel framing to withstand tornado force winds.