The severe weather season that accompanies Spring is arriving.

There are things you need to know to try and keep you safe, in the event of a severe thunderstorm or even a tornado.

First off let's go over the different weather terms. When the National Weather Service issues a watch, whether it be a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, or a Tornado Watch, that simply means conditions are favorable for such storms to form. If the forecasters upgrade that to a warning, that means a severe thunderstorm or tornado, whatever the case may be, has actually formed and can be seen on radar or eye witnessed.

Obviously, if you are outside and it begins to thunder, it's time to move inside. Lightning can strike at anytime and it can be a killer.

If a Tornado Warning is issued for your specific area or county you should proceed inside a sturdy structure as fast as possible. If a tornado appears and you don't have time to get inside, lie flat as possible away from trees or other things that could become debris.

If you are in a vehicle and a tornado appears, either stop and let it pass if possible or drive in the opposite  direction of the storm. Most, but not all tornadoes move west to east or to the northeast, so driving south would be the case in such an instant.

Do not seek shelter under a bridge over underpass, this used to be promoted, but it's actually dangerous because it acts like a wind tunnel which may increase winds and send debris hurtling your way.

If a Tornado Warning is issued for your specific area and you are inside a sturdy structure. such as your home, try and get to an inside center room on the lowest level, and away from windows. A closet, interior hallway, with little or no glass is your best bet.  .

Mobile homes, RV's and the like are not recommended during tornadoes because they are easily tossed or destroyed by the high winds

In our area, the peak time for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes is Spring, with the highest percentage in April to early to mid May. With this said, these storms can actually occur anytime of year, but by far this is the peak time of the year for such storms.

Making sure you have a disaster supply kit is always a good idea. You should have non-perishable food items, bottled water, flashlight, and batteries, and first aid kit.

Also, a battery operated radio or weather alert radio is also a good idea.

We will watch the weather closely for you over the next few months and do our best to keep you informed and up to date should severe weather strike.

 

 

 

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