Since 2011, several cities in the United States have experienced killer tornadoes with wind speeds in excess of 170 mph claiming several lives. Those of us in Central Nebraska know this all too well after an F3 tornado swept through our area just over a year ago.
The National Weather Service wants citizens to remember some rules that could save your life.
Don’t just depend on sirens for warning of impending dangerous weather. Have more than one way to receive warnings such as cell phones or a weather radio.
While sirens are an effective way to warn people who are outdoors, they may not be loud enough to awaken you in thee middle of the night.
A NOAA Weather Radio is like a smoke detector that can warn you anytime, whether you are indoors or outdoors. The radio will produce a loud sound when a tornado is issued in your area.
Also, it is very important to know what to do in the event of a tornado. The safest place to be is in approved underground or above ground storm shelters. The next safest place is on the lowest floor of your home, school or business such as an interior closet, hallway or bathroom. Stay low to the ground and cover yourself with blankets, pillows and/or mattresses.
If a tornado approaches and you live in a mobile home, abandon it for a more substantial shelter. If nothing is available, lie flat in a nearby ditch covering your head and neck.
Tornadic storms can aslo produce flash flooding. In 2012, 39 percent of U.S. flood fatalities occurred when people drove into flood waters.
Those of us at Eagle Radio and the North Platte Post pride ourselves in keeping you safe during severe weather. Tune into any of our stations or follow the Post on Facebook anytime severe weather is in the area.
Local Schools are invited to participate in a Tornado Drill on Wednesday, March 27 at 10:35 a.m. Please encourage your school administrators to participate and take the drill very seriously. It could be the difference between life and death.
For more severe weather information, please visit the following link, http://www.crh.noaa.gov/lbf/?n=severeweatherweek.