Students at Waukesha South H.S. learn about tornadoes, safety

WAUKESHA (WITI) -- The tornado that struck Moore, Oklahoma on Monday afternoon, May 20th reduced an elementary school to rubble, and the image was a reminder of the importance of teaching children what to do in the event of bad weather. At Waukesha South High School on Tuesday, a class learned how tornadoes form, and what they should do if a tornado were to strike during school.

Bob Oettinger, who teaches an astronomy and atmosphere class at Waukesha South took time out of his regularly scheduled lesson plan on Tuesday to talk about the tornadoes in Oklahoma, and share similar damage across Wisconsin.

"It is a real danger and it's something we want to practice especially in our schools every year," Oettinger said.

Oettinger explained to his class how tornadoes make the transition into becoming dangerous, and why places like Oklahoma are considered "Tornado Alley."

It all comes down to safety and knowing where students are supposed to go, in case Waukesha South were ever to be hit by a tornado.

"It's also sharing with students how they can be safe at their homes if they're out and about or if they're in their vehicles as well," Oettinger said.

Waukesha South, like all schools in the state is required by law to conduct a tornado drill during school hours. That took place in April, but after seeing the damage in Oklahoma this week, many educators are reviewing the safety plan once again.