Severe Weather

 

One of the great things about living in Minnesota is being able to enjoy four seasons.  The only drawback is that each season brings us different weather challenges, including the likelihood of severe weather.  It is important for you to understand what to do should severe weather strike.  It is also imperative to follow safety procedures if you use a portable generator.

 

 

 

Pay Attention!

One of the best things you can do is keep your eyes and ears open.  Pay attention to weather reports, forecasts and pay special attention to watches and warnings when they are issued. 

Watches & Warnings

When the National Weather Service issues a watch, it means that conditions for that type of weather are right and you should be ready to act should it occur.  A warning on the other hand means that type of weather has been observed and you should immediately take the appropriate steps to protect yourself.

One of the best ways to stay tuned in to the latest weather information is to have a weather radio.  A weather radio can be programmed to receive weather broadcasts from the local office of the National Weather Service.  One of their best features is that they can also be programmed to alarm when a watch or warning is issued for your area.  They are especially important in today's homes where air conditioning, fans, and other ambient noises can drown out the civil defense sirens.

Find Shelter

Finding shelter in the event of a severe thunderstorm or tornado depends upon your location. 

Single Family Home

• Go to the lowest level of the home, preferably a windowless interior room in the basement.

• Stay away from windows!

Apartment Building

• Go to the lowest level, away from windows.

• Take shelter under an interior stairway or a small center room.

High Rise Building

• Stay away from windows.
• Interior stairway away from windows.
• Enclosed windowless room
• Avoid elevators.
• Check with your buildings management to see if they have a designated emergency shelter.

School

Follow the directions from staff.  Schools have emergency plans that address severe weather sheltering. 

Place of Worship or Other Large Building

• Move to a designated shelter location.
• If one is not available, move to an interior bathroom or hallway away from windows.

What To Do AFTER A Tornado Or Severe Storm

Almost half of the deaths an injuries that occur from severe weather occur after the storm is over.  Here are some things you should do after the storm:

• Keep your family together
• Wait for help to arrive.
• Stay away from downed power lines, they may still be carrying electricity.
• If your home is damaged, and you know how, shut off your natural gas at the meter.
• Do Not Enter damaged homes, they may collapse.
• Watch out for broken glass, nails and other sharp objects on the ground when walking.
• Follow the directions you receive from emergency personnel.
• Make sure you follow safety procedures if you use a portable power generator.

Additional Information

National Weather Service - Tornado Safety