Multiple tornadoes ripped across central and southern Mississippi Wednesday night, damaging homes and businesses and leaving more than 15,000 customers without power. The American Red Cross has teams out across several counties, assessing the damage and working with state and local officials to determine what help and support people need.

Early reports from Mississippi Emergency Management indicate the tornadoes have damaged or destroyed as many as 1,000 structures. The agency stated the numbers could change as damage assessment continues.

The severe weather threat continues today. The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center reports severe storms capable of producing damaging winds and tornadoes are possible across parts of Alabama, Georgia, Florida and parts of the Carolinas.

The Red Cross is monitoring the situation and is prepared to respond if necessary. People in the path of this severe weather should make their emergency preparations now. Learn what steps to take to get your household ready here.

STEPS TO HELP YOU STAY SAFE Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for real-time alerts, expert advice in English and Spanish, and available disaster shelter and support locations. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps.

AFTER A TORNADO: Keep listening to radio, TV or other news sources. Stay in your shelter until the tornado warning is over.

• Do not enter damaged buildings.
• If the building you are in has been damaged, exit with extreme care and stay out. Look around for things that might fall or dangerous debris.
• Do not use matches or lighters inside. If you smell gas or see spills that could be flammable, leave immediately.
• If you are trapped, try to cover your mouth with a cloth or mask to avoid breathing dust. Try to send a text, bang on a pipe or wall, or use a whistle instead of shouting.
• Watch out for exposed nails and broken glass.
• Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
• Be careful during clean-up. Wear thick-soled shoes, long pants and work gloves to reduce injuries.
• Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
• If power is out, use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns to reduce fire risk.
• Be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not use gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, basement, garage, tent or camper — or even outside near an open window. Carbon monoxide can’t be seen or smelled, but it can kill you fast. If you start to feel sick, dizzy or weak, get to fresh air right away — do not delay.

If you are in the path of today’s severe weather, find the safest location at places where you spend a lot of time. A basement or a small interior room with no windows on the lowest level of a sturdy building is best.

• Mobile, manufactured, trailer homes and recreational vehicles (RVs) are not safe during storms. Plan ahead by finding a sturdy building where you can seek shelter.
• Practice a tornado drill with your entire household by moving quickly to the nearest safe location.
• Stay informed about potential thunderstorms and tornadoes by monitoring local weather reports and signing up for free emergency alerts from your local government.
• If a tornado warning is issued, or if you suspect a tornado, go to your safe place immediately. Then use your arms to protect your head and neck.