03/27/2026
Severe weather can happen at any time in Kansas, but Spring is definitely a time to be aware of the weather before hitting the road. Here are some helpful tips to help you stay safe on the road.
The Kansas Department of Transportation offers these tips if you are caught in a tornado while driving:
* If the tornado is visible, far away, and the traffic is light, you may be able to drive out of its path by moving at right angles to the tornado.
* Do not try to outrun a tornado.
* If you are caught by extreme winds or flying debris, park your vehicle as quickly and safely as possible completely off the roadway and away from other vehicles.
* If you can, lie in a ditch that is lower than the roadway and far enough away from your car that it won’t roll on top of you. Cover your head with your hands or a coat or blanket, if available. Being lower than the level of the roadway allows the strongest winds and flying debris to pass over you. Do not lie in a ditch during heavy rainfall.
* If you cannot safely exit your vehicle, stay in your vehicle with your seat belt on. Place your head below the windows and cover it with your hands and a blanket, coat, or other cushion if possible. Leave the car running so airbags can deploy if needed.
* Avoid seeking shelter under bridges, which can create deadly traffic hazards while offering little protection against flying debris.
* There are no publicly-owned storm shelters along Kansas highways maintained by KDOT. KDOT rest areas are not rated as storm shelters.
* The Kansas Turnpike Authority has public storm shelters at the service areas at Belle Plaine, Towanda, Matfield Green, Emporia, Topeka and Lawrence.
