Oklahoma’s storm season, from March through June, is a time when weather alerts become second nature. Tornadoes, hail, and severe thunderstorms are all part of the unpredictability of daily life. Most people, when faced with a storm, have one clear choice: head in the opposite direction. But what if you find yourself in a situation where you have to drive into the storm, rather than away from it?
I had that very experience recently as I was returning home from a business trip out of state. My car, my route, and the time I had left before sundown all converged with a developing storm system. I had a decision to make: stay put and risk being caught in the middle of nowhere as the storm intensified, or push forward and try to outrun it—heading straight into the worst of it. Unfortunately, I chose the latter. And while I made it home safe, the experience left me with valuable insights that could help others in similar situations.
Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself driving into the storm, rather than away from it.
1. Stay Informed
The first rule of navigating a storm is knowing what you’re up against. That means having access to real-time weather information. If you’re driving, your phone can be your best tool, but make sure you set up alerts for weather warnings as you travel. The National Weather Service has an app, and there are other weather apps like RadarScope or AccuWeather that provide reliable and detailed radar maps. Make sure your phone is fully charged, or consider using a car charger if your drive will be long.
Also, tune into local radio stations or a weather station that broadcasts emergency alerts. Even if you’re in the middle of nowhere, radio stations can offer crucial information on storm location, severity, and recommended actions.
2. Consider Your Route and Timing
If the storm is still a distance away but moving in your direction, you may have time to adjust your route. It’s important to plan your route with storm safety in mind. In my case, I knew there was no avoiding the storm entirely, but I could modify my drive slightly to avoid the worst hail and tornado risk zones. Keep in mind, rain and low visibility can drastically reduce your reaction time. If the storm is imminent, don’t hesitate to pull over at a safe location like a gas station or rest area and wait it out. Sometimes, getting to a safe spot is better than pushing forward.
3. Slow Down and Stay Safe
If you’re in the storm, slow your speed. Heavy rain reduces visibility, and slick roads can cause your tires to lose traction. When you can’t see the road clearly, the temptation may be to speed up and get through the storm faster. Resist that urge. Instead, decrease your speed and keep your headlights on. If the storm is so bad that you can’t see the road at all, it’s safer to pull over completely until conditions improve.
4. Know When to Stop
Sometimes, you reach a point where continuing forward is simply too dangerous. If you start seeing signs of tornado activity—such as a visible funnel cloud or a rapid rotation in the sky—it’s time to seek shelter immediately. If you’re on a highway with few options, don’t hesitate to take the nearest exit, even if it leads to a small town. When the conditions worsen, it’s better to wait it out in a sturdy building or under a bridge rather than staying in your car on an open road.
5. The Mental Game
Driving into a storm isn’t just a physical challenge; it’s also a mental one. The adrenaline rush and the constant reminder of the storm’s potential danger can be overwhelming. You might find yourself second-guessing decisions and wondering if you’re making the right call. It’s essential to stay calm and focused. Keep your mind on the road, avoid distractions, and remember that the storm is temporary. Safety is the priority, and your vehicle will get you through this if you stay composed and make thoughtful decisions.
In Conclusion
While driving into a storm may not be ideal, sometimes it’s unavoidable. It’s important to be prepared, stay calm, and make decisions that prioritize safety above all else. Every storm season brings its unique set of challenges, but by staying informed, adjusting your route, and knowing when to pull over, you can weather the storm with confidence.
Next time you find yourself facing down the storm, remember that it’s not just about getting to your destination—it’s about getting there safely. Remember, too, that before taking a road trip to contact OKC Auto Works for a vehicle tune-up to ensure your ride is road trip worthy. And in the event you find yourself with hail or storm damages to your vehicle due to driving into the storm (or really for any reason), we can take care of that damage as well. Just give us a call – (405) 634-8200.