July 24, 2008 Tornado warning issued for parts of New Hampshire Play video

(NECN) - The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for Southeastern Belknap County in Central New Hampshire and Northwestern Strafford County in Central New Hampshire.

A house has collapsed, and there are reports that people are trapped in Epsom, NH. The town's fire chief said preliminary reports indicate damage to 50 to 100 homes. Another report said people were trapped in cars beneath fallen powerlines in Alton.

Severe thunderstorm warnings were posted throughout the area.

The safest place to be during a tornado is in a basement. Get under a workbench or other piece of sturdy furniture. If no basement is available, seek shelter on the lowest floor of the building in an interior hallway or room, such as a closet. Use blankets or pillows to cover your body and always stay away from windows.

If in mobile homes or vehicles, evacuate them and get inside a substantial shelter. If no shelter is available, lie flat in the nearest ditch or other low spot and cover your head with your hands.

Please report a tornado, hail or strong winds to the National Weather Service by calling: (877) 633-6772.