National Severe Weather Awareness Week March 7th through March 11th

Kansas Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 7th through March 11th. So take this coming week to refresh yourself on what to do about hazards like tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail and flash flooding, all which inevitably impact Kansas every year.

The National Weather Service (NWS) urges everyone to be “Weather-Ready” by knowing what appropriate actions to take if needed, and by helping others learn how to prepare for a disaster. Focus on preparedness, tornado safety, lightning, hail and wind, and flood safety.

As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, a tornado drill will occur on Tuesday, March 8th at 10:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time.

The NWS suggests everyone consider treating the drill as a real event and practice your severe weather safety plan. Also, check to make sure you have a “tornado kit” which should include such items as a radio, batteries, bottled water, snacks, blankets, pillows, etc.

In an event of a tornado, move to an interior room on the lowest floor or basement of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Remember, a tornado siren is a steady blast, which continues for approximately three to five minutes.

To get on the email or text message for severe weather alerts people can call the Rooks County Emergency Management Director Butch Post at 785-425-6818.