Opening windows invites the storm's destructive forces directly into your home. Tornado Safety - National Weather Service
Forget the pressure equalization theory. It is a dangerous relic of old weather folklore. Focus entirely on reaching your safe zone and protecting your head and neck. Your windows cannot save your house, but staying away from them can save your life. To help you stay prepared, should windows be open or closed during a tornado
| Organization | Recommendation | | :--- | :--- | | | “Stay away from windows. Do not open them. Get to the lowest floor.” | | FEMA | “Go to a safe room, basement, or interior room. Keep windows and doors closed.” | | American Red Cross | “Do not open windows. This will not protect the home and will let debris inside.” | Focus entirely on reaching your safe zone and
If the storm is strong enough, debris will likely break your windows anyway. Do not attempt to board them up once a warning is issued. Instead: Do not open them
For decades, there was a common myth about opening windows to "equalize pressure," but meteorologists and safety experts have debunked this. Keeping windows closed is the safer choice.