As a Native Midwesterner, I Keep These 8 Essentials in My Basement for Tornado Season

A few weeks ago, I took a walk after putting my son down for the night. I knew there was a risk of severe weather, but it was so calm out I figured I could go quickly. I only made it a few blocks before tornado sirens started going off, the winds were whipping tree branches, and rain started falling sideways. A few minutes later, I was in the basement with my family.

As someone who grew up in the Midwest, I’m no novice when it comes to summer storms, but it’s still shocking how quickly things can turn. While tornadoes are more common in certain regions, they can happen anywhere. And with extreme weather becoming the norm across the country, tornado preparedness is particularly relevant—even for areas that haven’t experienced it in the past.

8 Must-Have Items for Tornado Season

If there’s a tornado warning for your area, it’s important to take shelter in your basement or another safe space like a bathroom or interior room without windows. Because you have to stay there until the danger has passed (and storms can manifest swiftly), you might not have time to grab all the things you’d want or need when the sirens sound.

Before extreme weather starts, put together a kit and store it in your designated safe room. While different families have different needs, here are some suggestions to get you started so you can get prepared in the calm before the storm.

1. Portable Phone Charger or Battery

If you’re going to be in your basement for an extended period of time, you don’t want to be left with a dead cell phone. Having a portable charger (one that doesn’t need to be plugged into an outlet) or power bank ensures you’ll have a charged phone when you need one. Better yet, choose a solar-powered model or one with a hand crank so you can easily recharge it, too. And don’t forget to write down some emergency numbers.

Also, make sure that you have a reliable weather app on your phone so you can monitor conditions before and during strong storms.

2. Drinking Water

Obviously, water is always a necessity, but flooding associated with heavy rains can also cause a boil order, so having something to drink is essential during and potentially after a storm. Stock up on water bottles, but be wary about putting them in a fridge: It’s the safe and smart choice to unplug your appliances during any major storm.

3. Flashlight or Camping Lantern

If the electricity goes out, having a source of light will make your experience both safer and less scary. A flashlight can also be beneficial for assessing any damage around your house if it’s nighttime when the storm passes. Include extra batteries in your kit as well.

4. Medications

If you have any medications or supplements that you rely on, consider keeping a stash of essentials in your emergency kit. Prepare a couple days’ worth in a pill organizer to keep everything separated. It’s unlikely you’ll be stuck in your basement for longer than an evening, but it never hurts to prepare for more.

5. First Aid Kit

Hopefully, you’ll never need to use your first aid kit, but it’s much better to be safe than sorry. The Red Cross recommends that you add plenty of bandages, compress dressings, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizer, non-latex gloves, tweezers, and more. And equip your basement with a couple of cozy emergency blankets in case you’re spending the night (or just need something comforting to cuddle up in).

6. Snacks

While this might not be as essential as some of the other things on the list, having some non-perishable snacks (granola bars, crackers, nuts, chips, etc.) on hand will prevent hunger while you wait out the storm.

7. Pet Supplies

If you have pets, make sure that you have some of their food and bowls from which they can drink, any medications, and treats. It’s also worth getting some pee pads and an extra litter box—your pets (and everyone else) will thank you.

8. Entertainment

While this isn’t necessarily essential, if you’re going to be stuck somewhere for a long period of time, you’re going to want to give yourself something to do, especially if the power goes out. This will also help keep kids’ anxiety down in an uncertain situation. Consider throwing a stack of books and board games near your emergency kit.