Weather Events

If a major storm is on its way, take steps to stay safe and minimize damage before it arrives:

• Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) for up-to-the-minute information about any storm watches or warnings in your area.
• Keep supplies in an emergency preparedness kit. Suggested items include water bottles, non-perishable food, blankets, first-aid supplies, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio.
• Make sure your yard is free of heavy debris that could be tossed around in the wind, and trim trees to prevent limbs from falling on your house.
• Contact your local emergency management office for information about local shelters, evacuation plans, and emergency exit routes.

The rain, heavy winds, and lightning associated with these storms can cause flooding, damage to homes, and widespread power outages. Stay prepared with these tips:

• Learn about your community’s emergency warning system and discuss lightning safety with your entire family.
• If a thunderstorm appears likely, postpone all outdoor activities.
• If a thunderstorm watch or warning is issued, take shelter in your home or other building.
• Shutter all windows and close exterior doors securely.

Severe storms can lead to flash flooding, which is often among the most damaging and costly of all natural disasters. Use elevation information for your property to determine its vulnerability to flooding, and use these tips to stay prepared:

• If you live in a flood-prone area, keep sandbags, plywood, and plastic sheeting on hand.
• Standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage. See the National Flood Insurance Program for information about obtaining flood insurance, especially if you live in a flood-prone area.
• Contact your local emergency management agency to learn what protective measures should be taken around your home or business.
• Seal the walls in your basement with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
• Be aware of streams, drainage channels, and areas known to flood; prepare an alternate course in case your planned evacuation route becomes dangerous or impossible to follow.

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While most common in the Great Plains of the central United States, tornadoes have been reported in every state. They can destroy homes, uproot trees, and hurl objects through the air. Minimize stress and worry by planning ahead with these tips:

• Familiarize yourself with your community's tornado warning system, such as outdoor sirens, to ensure you're able to recognize and react to the alert.
• Choose a safe area in your home where you and your family can gather if a tornado warning is issued. This area should be in the basement, or a windowless room located on the lowest level of your home.
• Conduct routine tornado drills with the entire family so that everyone knows where to go and what to do if a tornado is approaching.
• Understand and look for signs of a tornado: a dark-colored sky, low-lying clouds, large hail, or a loud roar.