Living in Wisconsin, we know that the weather can be unpredictable. It may be perfectly sunny and warm in the morning and turn windy and cold by the afternoon. So when severe weather hits, it’s important to be prepared.
Thunderstorms are the biggest culprit of severe weather that we experience, especially in the summer months. Thunderstorms can bring lightning, tornadoes, flooding, and loss of power. Whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, thunderstorms can occur.
Understanding Weather Terminology
- Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Thunderstorms with large hail and damaging winds are possible. Be prepared to move to a safe location if a warning is issued.
- Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A thunderstorm with large hail and damaging winds has been reported or indicated by weather radar.
- Tornado Watch: Severe thunderstorms with tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms and be prepared to move to a safe location if a warning is issued.
- Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Move to a safe location right away.
How to Plan for Severe Weather
Being prepared allows you and your loved ones to be one step ahead of mother nature. Have a family meeting to review shelter areas in your home and have frequent drills to practice your emergency plan. Ensure everyone knows where emergency supplies are stored, as well as how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity in your home. Check batteries in flashlights and weather radios throughout the year.
When putting together a disaster supply kit, be sure to have:
• Weather radio
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Water (1 gallon per person per day for up to 3 days)
• Food (3-day supply of non-perishable items)
• Manual can opener
If there are pets in the home, make sure you have extra food and water for them as well. You’ll also want emergency contact information, lists of medications and allergies, and any other information first responders would need in an emergency situation.
For more information and ideas for disaster supply kits and family safety plans, visit www.ready.gov.
