Severe Weather

Despite advances in warning systems,  many people are killed or seriously injured by tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. In 2017 alone, 1,522 tornadoes were confirmed in the United States, which caused 38 fatalities. While in some cases, it is possible that some of the victims did not hear a warning, it is also concerning that others may have not heeded the warning. 

Some things that you can do to help protect your family from severe weather include: 

• Develop a plan for you and your family at home, work, school and when outdoors
• Identify a safe place to take shelter
• Have frequent drills
• Know the county in which you live or visit
• Keep a highway map near by to follow storm movement from weather bulletins
• Have a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and batter back-up to receive warnings
• Listen to radio and television for weather information
• Check weather forecast before leaving for extended periods outdoors
• Watch for approaching storms