Homes have basements and other structures that can be more secure during tornadoes than other structures. And most importantly, people are familiar with where those safer places are in their own homes, so that when the power goes out and the wind blowing so hard and loud that it breaks their windows, they still know where to go and how to get there quickly and safely.

There are often storm shelters in areas hit by weather like this, and there was ample warning about this storm system, so at least some of those that don't feel safe in their homes could have sheltered somewhere else if they were free to do so.

Being alert and prepared is safer, and neither is all that possible while working.

Especially working where they track how long it takes to reach for a product and place it in a box, and that action is repeated multiple times a minute for the entire shift. All employees are on the edge of panic at all times.

Sure their homes may not have been safer, but they would have had more opportunities to get to a shelter, or to find somewhere safe, as compared to having to be at work picking shelves in a warehouse built to the minimum spec/cost.

The official advice in the first warning:

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

https://mesonet.agron.iastate.edu/vtec/#2021-O-NEW-KLSX-TO-W...

If you are in a reasonable building (such as a typical home) when a tornado warning is issued, do not seek alternative shelter. Seek the most secure area of the building you are already in.

You can search all the warnings/watches here: https://mesonet.agron.iastate.edu/vtec/search.php#byugc/MOC1...

I will note that the watch (which proceeded the warning) suggested to precautionary action.

https://mesonet.agron.iastate.edu/vtec/#2021-O-NEW-KLSX-TO-A...

Well, they could have just... done exactly that.

Will Amazon count that as Time off Task every time the warehouse isn't hit by a tornado?