Public Tornado Shelter map
This interactive map provides general location information for public and community tornado shelters across the United States. Data is compiled from official emergency management and government reporting sources and is intended for preparedness and planning purposes only.This page does not provide forecasts, alerts, or emergency instructions.
Overview
The Public Tornado Shelter Map is designed to help residents, travelers, and communities identify known public tornado shelter locations before severe weather occurs.
Public shelters may include:
- Community storm shelters
- Municipal or county-designated safe rooms
- Emergency management–listed shelter locations
Availability, access, and operating status can vary by location, jurisdiction, and event.
This tool is intended to support advance preparedness, not real-time emergency decision-making.
Pubic Tornado Shelter Locator
Shelter locations are informational only.
Shelter availability, access hours, and eligibility are determined by local authorities and may change without notice.
What This Map Shows
Known public and community tornado shelter locations
- General geographic placement (city, county, or jurisdiction level)
- Shelter listings provided through official emergency management and government data sources
- Summary counts by state where available
This map displays:
Shelter datasets and available fields may vary by state or locality.
What This Map Does Not Do
This map does not:
- Guarantee shelter access during an active event
- Indicate shelter capacity, staffing, or operational status
- Replace local emergency instructions
- Provide real-time warnings or forecasts
- Confirm whether a shelter is open, unlocked, or staffed
For life-safety decisions, always follow official alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) and guidance from local emergency management authorities.
Shelter Listings & Local Authority
Public shelter information is maintained by local, county, or state agencies.
Some locations may be:
- Seasonal
- Event-based
- Restricted to specific populations
- Temporarily unavailable
Always verify shelter access through local emergency management offices when possible.
RELATIONSHIP TO PREPAREDNESS
Understanding where public shelters are located can support:
- Household emergency planning
- Travel preparedness
- Community awareness
- Risk assessment alongside tornado history data
Long-term safety planning should also consider:
- Local tornado history
- Building standards
- Personal shelter options
- Emergency alert systems
