Tornadoes are the most violent storms anywhere, and about 1,200 touch ground in the United States every year, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

They’re as unpredictable as they are violent, most often occurring in the early spring on the Gulf Coast, in May and June on the southern plains, and in June and July in the upper Midwest. But, tornadoes can occur any time of year and have been recorded in every state, says the NWS.

If a twister forms when you’re traveling through an unfamiliar region, or even while driving near home, you don’t have much time to make smart decisions that can help save your life. The NWS and Red Cross recommend these actions if a tornado catches you while you’re on the go:

• Know the difference between a watch and a warning:

Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible around the general watch area. This tells you to be alert and prepared.

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been seen or has appeared on weather radar. This tells you to take immediate action to protect yourself and family.

• Know how to access emergency broadcasts in case you encounter worrisome conditions:

Local news stations.

NOAA Weather Radio. Dial the VHF public service band from 162.400 to 162.550 MHz for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) All Hazards broadcast.

Local NWS Weather Forecast Office. Access local watches, warnings, forecasts and radar images online – just not while driving.

• Know the warning signs of a tornado:

Dark clouds, frequently greenish.

A wall cloud, attached to the base of a thundercloud but isolated and lowering.

Flying debris.

Large hailstones.

A roaring noise, ranging from the sound of a waterfall to that of a jet engine.

A funnel cloud, a rotating funnel extending from the base of a thundercloud. Once it touches the ground, a funnel cloud is a tornado.