SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY

WHATS YOUR PLAN?
STAY INFORMED ABOUT THE STORM
by listening to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, and television for the latest severe thunderstorm WATCHES and WARNINGS.
When conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop, a severe thunderstorm WATCH is issued.

Weather Service personnel use information from weather radar, satellite, lightning detection, spotters, and other sources to issue severe thunderstorm WARNINGS for areas where severe weather is imminent.

Severe thunderstorm warnings are passed to local radio and television stations and are broadcast over local NOAA Weather Radio stations serving the warned areas. These warnings are also relayed to local emergency management and public safety officials who can activate local warning systems to alert communities.

NOAA WEATHER RADIO IS THE BEST MEANS TO RECEIVE WARNINGS FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
The National Weather Service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts that can be received by NOAA Weather Radios, which are sold in many stores. The average range is 40 miles, depending on topography. Your National Weather Service recommends purchasing a radio that has both a battery backup and a tone-alert feature that automatically alerts you when a watch or warning is issued.

What to Listen For...
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH: tells you when and where severe thunderstorms are more likely to occur. Watch the sky and stay tuned to know when warnings are issued. Watches are intended to heighten public awareness and should not be confused with warnings.
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING: issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm. Also listen for Tornado Watch or Warning and Flash Flood Watch or Warning.
Also...listen for Tornado Watch or Warning and Flash Flood Watch or Warning.

FAMILY DISASTER PLAN
Families should be prepared for all hazards that could affect their area. NOAA's National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the American Red Cross urge every family to develop a family disaster plan.

Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere_at work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disaster may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services_water, gas, electricity or telephones_were cut off?

Follow these basic steps to develop a family disaster plan...
I. Gather information about hazards. Contact your local National Weather Service office, emergency management office, and American Red Cross chapter. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond. Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans.

II. Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot outside your home for an emergency, such as fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Choose an out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate.

III. Implement your plan.
(1) Post emergency telephone numbers by phones;
(2) Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers;
(3) Inspect your home for potential hazards (such as items that can move, fall, break, or catch fire) and correct them;
(4) Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid; how to use a fire extinguisher; and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home;
(5) Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number;
(6) Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunk of your car.
A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT SHOULD INCLUDE:
A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil
one change of clothing and footwear per person
one blanket or sleeping bag per person
a first aid kit, including prescription medicines
emergency tools, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries
an extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash
special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.

IV. Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries two times each year. Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every 6 months. Contact your local National Weather Service office, American Red Cross chapter, or local office of emergency management for a copy of "Your Family Disaster Plan"

Tornado Safety
What YOU Can Do
Before the Storm:
Develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, , school and when outdoors.
Have frequent drills.
Know the county/parish in which you live, and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins.
Have a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery back-up to receive warnings.
Listen to radio and television for information.
If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible.
If a Warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches:
In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement.
If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
Stay away from windows.
Get out of automobiles.
Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately.
Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned.
Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that advance warning is not possible. Remain alert for signs of an approaching tornado. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most deaths and injuries.
It's Up To YOU!
Each year, many people are killed or seriously injured by tornadoes despite advance warning. Some did not hear the warning while others received the warning but did not believe a tornado would actually affect them. The preparedness information in this brochure, combined with timely severe weather watches and warnings, could save your life in the event a tornado threatens your area. After you have received the warning or observed threatening skies, YOU must make the decision to seek shelter before the storm arrives. It could be the most important decision you will ever make.

Who's Most At Risk?
People in automobiles
The elderly, very young, and the physically or mentally impaired
People in mobile homes
People who may not understand the warning due to a language barrier

Tornado Safety in Schools
EVERY School Should Have A Plan!
Develop a severe weather action plan and have frequent drills,
Each school should be inspected and tornado shelter areas designated by a registered engineer or architect. Basements offer the best protection. Schools without basements should use interior rooms and hallways on the lowest floor and away from windows.
Those responsible for activating the plan should monitor weather information from NOAA Weather Radio and local radio/television.
If the school's alarm system relies on electricity, have a compressed air horn or megaphone to activate the alarm in case of power failure.
Make special provisions for disabled students and those in portable classrooms.
Make sure someone knows how to turn off electricity and gas in the event the school is damaged.
Keep children at school beyond regular hours if threatening weather is expected. Children are safer at school than in a bus or car. Students should not be sent home early if severe weather is approaching.
Lunches or assemblies in large rooms should be delayed if severe weather is anticipated. Gymnasiums, cafeterias, and auditoriums offer no protection from tornado-strength winds.
Move students quickly into interior rooms or hallways on the lowest floor. Have them assume the tornado protection position (shown at right).
Hospitals, nursing homes, and other institutions should develop a similar plan
Your National Weather Service, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and American Red Cross educate community officials and the public concerning the dangers posed by tornadoes. YOU can prepare for the possibility of a tornado by learning the safest places to seek shelter when at home, work, school, or outdoors. You should also understand basic weather terms and danger signs related to tornadoes. Your chances of staying safe during a tornado are greater if you have a plan for you and your family, and practice the plan frequently.

FAMILY DISASTER PLAN
Families should be prepared for all hazards that affect their area. NOAA's National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the American Red Cross urge each family to develop a family disaster plan.

Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere - at work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disasters may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services - water, gas, electricity or telephones - were cut off?

Follow these basic steps to develop a family disaster plan...

I. Gather information about hazards. Contact your local National Weather Service office, emergency management or civil defense office, and American Red Cross chapter. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond. Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans.

II. Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot outside your home for an emergency, such as fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Choose an out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate.

III. Implement your plan.
(1) Post emergency telephone numbers by phones;
(2) Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers;
(3) Inspect your home for potential hazards (such as items that can move, fall, break, or catch fire) and correct them;
(4) Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid; how to use a fire extinguisher; and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home;
(5) Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number;
(6) Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunk of your car.
A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT SHOULD INCLUDE:
A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil
one change of clothing and footwear per person
one blanket or sleeping bag per person
a first-aid kit, including prescription medicines
emergency tools, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries
an extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash
special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.

IV. Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every six months.

PLAN AHEAD:
Identify where to go if told to evacuate. Choose several places...a friend's home or a motel in another town, or a shelter.

GO TO HIGHER GROUND

Know your area's flood risk. For information, call your local National Weather Service office, Red Cross chapter, or local emergency management agency. Check your homeowner's or renter's insurance. Homeowners' policies do not cover flooding. Contact your insurance agent to find out how to get flood insurance.

flooding can occur NATIONWIDE!
Even 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet, and a depth of 2 feet will float your car! NEVER try to walk, swim, or drive through such swift water. If you come upon flood waters, STOP! TURN AROUND AND GO ANOTHER WAY.

SOME HISTORICAL NWS DATA

Dam Break

May 31, 1889 Johnstown, Pennsylvania...
the worst flood in United States history..
36-40 ft. wall of water...2,200 dead.

River Flood

December 1991/January 1992 South-central Texas...
wide-spread river flooding on the Guadalupe, Brazos, Trinity, and Colorado River Basins...
up to 17 inches of rain...15 dead...damages .

Flash Flood Events

June 14, 1990 Shadyside, Ohio...
4 inches of rain in less than 2 hours produced a 30-foot high wall of water...
26 dead...damages -8M.
August 1, 1985 Cheyenne, Wyoming...
6 inches of rain in 3 hours...
12 dead...damages .

Flooding Takes Many Forms...
Flash flooding occurs within 6 hours of the rain event.
Flooding is a longer term event and may last a week or more.
RIVER FLOOD
Flooding along rivers is a natural and inevitable part of life. Some floods occur seasonally when winter or spring rains, coupled with melting snows, fill river basins with too much water, too quickly. Torrential rains from decaying hurricanes or tropical systems can also produce river flooding.

COASTAL FLOOD
Winds generated from tropical storms and hurricanes or intense offshore low pressure systems can drive ocean water inland and cause significant flooding. Escape routes can be cut off and blocked by high water. Coastal flooding can also be produced by sea waves called tsunamis (tsoo-n„ -m z), sometimes referred to as tidal waves. These waves are produced by earthquakes or volcanic activity.

NOTE: Coastal flooding caused by the storm surge associated with hurricanes is described in publication NOAA/PA 78019, "Storm Surge and Hurricane Safety."

URBAN FLOOD
As land is converted from fields or woodlands to roads and parking lots, it loses its ability to absorb rainfall. Urbanization increases runoff 2 to 6 times over what would occur on natural terrain. During periods of urban flooding, streets can become swift moving rivers, while basements can become death traps as they fill with water.

FLASH FLOODING IN ARROYOS/WASHES
An arroyo is a water-carved gully or normally dry creek bed. Arroyos can fill with fast-moving water very quickly. Flash flooding at this arroyo in Arizona took only 58 seconds to develop.

ICE JAM
Floating ice can accumulate at a natural or man-made obstruction and stop the flow of water.

MANY FLASH FLOODS OCCUR AT NIGHT...BE PREPARED TO TAKE QUICK ACTION

How can a foot or two of water cost you your life?
Water weighs 62.4 lbs. per cubic foot and typically flows downstream at 6 to 12 miles an hour.
When a vehicle stalls in the water, the water's momentum is transferred to the car. For each foot the water rises, 500 lbs. of lateral force are applied to the car.
But the biggest factor is buoyancy. For each foot the water rises up the side of the car, the car displaces 1,500 lbs. of water. In effect, the car weighs 1,500 lbs. less for each foot the water rises.
Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles.

Before the flood...
What YOU can do:
Know your flood risk and elevation above flood stage.
- Do your local streams or rivers flood easily? If so, be prepared to move to a place of safety. Know your evacuation routes.
Keep your automobile fueled; if electric power is cut off, gas stations may not be able to operate pumps for several days.
Store drinking water in clean bathtubs and in various containers. Water service may be interrupted.
Keep a stock of food that requires little cooking and no refrigeration; electric power may be interrupted.
Keep first aid supplies on hand.
Keep a NOAA Weather Radio, a battery-powered portable radio, emergency cooking equipment, and flashlights in working order. Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing: first aid kit, canned food and can opener, bottled water, rubber boots, rubber gloves, NOAA Weather Radio, battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
What YOUR community can do:
Assist hospitals and other operations which are critically affected by power failure by arranging for auxiliary power supplies.
River/rainfall readings are valuable to local emergency management agencies (EMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) in assessing flood conditions and taking appropriate actions. Advanced warning provided by early detection is critical to saving lives. Automatic flood detection systems are available commercially for flood-prone communities. Contact your local NWS office or emergency management agency for further information on LOCAL FLOOD WARNING SYSTEMS.

STAY INFORMED ABOUT THE STORM
by listening to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, and television for the latest flash flood/flood WATCHES, WARNINGS, and ADVISORIES.

NOAA WEATHER RADIO IS THE BEST MEANS TO RECEIVE WARNINGS FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE. The National Weather Service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts that can be received by NOAA Weather Radios sold in many stores. Average range is 40 miles, depending on topography. Your National Weather Service recommends purchasing a radio that has both a battery backup and a tone-alert feature which automatically alerts you when a watch or warning is issued.

What to Listen For...
FLASH FLOOD OR FLOOD WATCH: Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated WATCH area be alert.
FLASH FLOOD OR FLOOD WARNING: Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent take necessary precautions at once.
URBAN AND SMALL STREAM ADVISORY: Flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains, is occurring.
FLASH FLOOD OR FLOOD STATEMENT: Follow-up information regarding a flash flood/flood event.
The rule for being safe in a flooding situation is simple: HEAD FOR HIGHER GROUND AND STAY AWAY FROM FLOOD WATERS!

TAKE ACTION!
When a flash flood WATCH is issued Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.
When a flash flood WARNING is issued for your area, or the moment you realize that a flash flood is imminent, act quickly to save yourself. You may have only SECONDS!
Go to higher ground Climb to safety!
Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc.
Avoid already flooded and high velocity flow areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roadways!
If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember, it's better to be wet than dead!
Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
When you receive a FLOOD WARNING:
If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
continue monitoring NOAA Weather Radio, television, or emergency broadcast station for information.
During the flood:
Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.
If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, STOP! Turn around and go another way.
Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
Children should NEVER play around high water, storm drains, viaducts, or arroyos.
After the flood:
If fresh food has come in contact with flood waters, throw it out.
Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking. If in doubt, call your local public health authority.
Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter, and first aid are available from the Red Cross.
Do not visit disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.
Use flashlights, not lanterns, torches or matches, to examine buildings. Flammables may be inside.
Report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities.

FAMILY DISASTER PLAN
Families should be prepared for all hazards that affect their area. NOAA's National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the American Red Cross urge each family to develop a family disaster plan.

Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere at work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disasters may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services water, gas, electricity or telephones were cut off?

Follow these basic steps to develop a family disaster plan...

I. Gather information about hazards. Contact your local National Weather Service office, emergency management or civil defense office, and American Red Cross chapter. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond. Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans.

II. Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot outside your home for an emergency, such as fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Choose an out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate.

III. Implement your plan.

(1) Post emergency telephone numbers by phones;
(2) Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers;
(3) Inspect your home for potential hazards (such as items that can move, fall, break, or catch fire) and correct them;
(4) Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid; how to use a fire extinguisher; and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home;
(5) Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number;
(6) Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunk of your car.

A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT SHOULD INCLUDE:
A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil
one change of clothing and footwear per person
one blanket or sleeping bag per person
a first aid kit, including prescription medicines
emergency tools, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries
an extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash
special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.

IV. Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every six months.

If a tornado was approaching, would you know what to do? Tornadoes are the most violent atmospheric phenomenon on the planet. Winds of 200-300 mph can occur with the most violent tornadoes. The following are instructions on what to do when a tornado warning has been issued for your area or whenever a tornado threatens. In homes or small buildings, go to the basement (if available) or to an interior room on the lowest floor, such as a closet or bathroom. Wrap yourself in overcoats or blankets to protect yourself from flying debris. In schools, hospitals, factories or shopping centers, go to interior rooms and halls on the lowest floor. Stay away from glass enclosed places or areas with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums and warehouses. Crouch down and cover your head. In high rise buildings, go to interior small rooms or halls. Stay away from exterior walls or glassy areas. In cars or mobile homes, abandon them immediately!! Most deaths occur in cars and mobile homes. If you are in either of those locations, leave them and go to a substantial structure or designated tornado shelter. If no suitable structure is nearby, lie flat in the nearest ditch or depression and use your hands to cover your head. Do you know what to do if you are caught in the open during a thunderstorm or you feel tingling or your hair standing on end? Lightning can strike up to several miles away from the thunderstorm. When inside: Avoid using the telephone (except for emergencies) or other electrical appliances. Do not take a bath or shower. If caught outdoors: Go to a safe shelter immediately! such as inside a sturdy building. A pickup truck or hard top automobile with the windows up can also offer fair protection. If you are boating or swimming, get out of the water immediately and move to a safe shelter away from the water! If you are in a wooded area, seek shelter under a thick growth of relatively small trees. If you feel your hair standing on end, squat with your head between your knees. Do not lie flat! Avoid isolated trees or other tall objects, bodies of water, sheds, fences, convertible automobiles, tractors and motorcycles.
			FLASH FLOODS Flash Floods develop quickly. They can occur anywhere, along rivers or creeks, in low water crossings or in a dry stream bed. They can occur during any month and at any time during the day. In fact, flash floods often occur at night when it is difficult to find an escape route. Flash floods can be deceptive. Flood waters are likely deeper and moving faster than you think. When driving: Avoid low water crossings. Use alternate routes to avoid flood prone areas. Leave your vehicle immediately if it stalls in flood waters. Move to higher ground if you can do so safely. Most cars and light trucks will begin to float in as little as 12 to 2 feet of water. Act quickly. Rising waters make vehicle doors difficult if not impossible to open. If you are outside: Everyone, especially children, should stay away from flooded creeks, streams or drainage ditches. Swiftly flowing water can quickly sweep away even the strongest swimmers. Soggy banks can collapse, dumping you into flood waters.
			RIVER FLOODS Unlike flash floods, which are short-term events, river floods may last for several days or longer. River floods are the result of: decaying hurricanes or remnants of tropical systems that may produce heavy rains, or melting snow in combination with heavy rains, or dam failures. If river flooding is imminent or occurring, the National Weather Service will issue a river flood warning. Before a river flood, review these guidelines for river flood preparation: Know your flood risk and elevation above flood stage. Keep your automobile fueled. Gas stations may not be able to operate gas pumps for several days after the flood event. Store drinking water in clean bathtubs or in other containers. Water service may be interrupted for days. Maintain a reserve of food that requires little if any cooking and no refrigeration. Keep first aid supplies on hand. Maintain a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio or other radio. Have emergency cooking equipment and flashlights. Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing into drains in your home. During a river flood, follow these safety tips: If you come upon a flowing stream where the water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go the other way. Do not attempt to drive over flooded roadways. Never allow children to play near high water, storm drains or viaducts. Follow all evacuation orders. After the flood has ended, many dangers still remain. Remember these safety rules after river floods end: Throw out fresh food that comes in contact with flood waters. Boil all water before drinking it. Test well water for purity before drinking. Do not visit disaster areas, you may hinder emergency operations. Dry and check electrical equipment before using it. Use flashlights, not lanterns, torches or matches to examine buildings. Flammables may be inside. Report downed utility lines to appropriate authorities.
			WHATS YOUR PLAN? STAY INFORMED ABOUT THE STORM by listening to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, and television for the latest severe thunderstorm WATCHES and WARNINGS. When conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop, a severe thunderstorm WATCH is issued. Weather Service personnel use information from weather radar, satellite, lightning detection, spotters, and other sources to issue severe thunderstorm WARNINGS for areas where severe weather is imminent. Severe thunderstorm warnings are passed to local radio and television stations and are broadcast over local NOAA Weather Radio stations serving the warned areas. These warnings are also relayed to local emergency management and public safety officials who can activate local warning systems to alert communities. NOAA WEATHER RADIO IS THE BEST MEANS TO RECEIVE WARNINGS FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE The National Weather Service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts that can be received by NOAA Weather Radios, which are sold in many stores. The average range is 40 miles, depending on topography. Your National Weather Service recommends purchasing a radio that has both a battery backup and a tone-alert feature that automatically alerts you when a watch or warning is issued. What to Listen For... SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH: tells you when and where severe thunderstorms are more likely to occur. Watch the sky and stay tuned to know when warnings are issued. Watches are intended to heighten public awareness and should not be confused with warnings. SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING: issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm. Also listen for Tornado Watch or Warning and Flash Flood Watch or Warning. Also...listen for Tornado Watch or Warning and Flash Flood Watch or Warning. FAMILY DISASTER PLAN Families should be prepared for all hazards that could affect their area. NOAA's National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the American Red Cross urge every family to develop a family disaster plan. Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere_at work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disaster may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services_water, gas, electricity or telephones_were cut off? Follow these basic steps to develop a family disaster plan... I. Gather information about hazards. Contact your local National Weather Service office, emergency management office, and American Red Cross chapter. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond. Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans. II. Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot outside your home for an emergency, such as fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Choose an out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate. III. Implement your plan. (1) Post emergency telephone numbers by phones; (2) Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; (3) Inspect your home for potential hazards (such as items that can move, fall, break, or catch fire) and correct them; (4) Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid; how to use a fire extinguisher; and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home; (5) Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number; (6) Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunk of your car. A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT SHOULD INCLUDE: A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil one change of clothing and footwear per person one blanket or sleeping bag per person a first aid kit, including prescription medicines emergency tools, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries an extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members. IV. Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries two times each year. Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every 6 months. Contact your local National Weather Service office, American Red Cross chapter, or local office of emergency management for a copy of "Your Family Disaster Plan" Tornado Safety What YOU Can Do Before the Storm: Develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, , school and when outdoors. Have frequent drills. Know the county/parish in which you live, and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins. Have a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery back-up to receive warnings. Listen to radio and television for information. If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible. If a Warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches: In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement. If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Stay away from windows. Get out of automobiles. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned. Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that advance warning is not possible. Remain alert for signs of an approaching tornado. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most deaths and injuries. It's Up To YOU! Each year, many people are killed or seriously injured by tornadoes despite advance warning. Some did not hear the warning while others received the warning but did not believe a tornado would actually affect them. The preparedness information in this brochure, combined with timely severe weather watches and warnings, could save your life in the event a tornado threatens your area. After you have received the warning or observed threatening skies, YOU must make the decision to seek shelter before the storm arrives. It could be the most important decision you will ever make. Who's Most At Risk? People in automobiles The elderly, very young, and the physically or mentally impaired People in mobile homes People who may not understand the warning due to a language barrier Tornado Safety in Schools EVERY School Should Have A Plan! Develop a severe weather action plan and have frequent drills, Each school should be inspected and tornado shelter areas designated by a registered engineer or architect. Basements offer the best protection. Schools without basements should use interior rooms and hallways on the lowest floor and away from windows. Those responsible for activating the plan should monitor weather information from NOAA Weather Radio and local radio/television. If the school's alarm system relies on electricity, have a compressed air horn or megaphone to activate the alarm in case of power failure. Make special provisions for disabled students and those in portable classrooms. Make sure someone knows how to turn off electricity and gas in the event the school is damaged. Keep children at school beyond regular hours if threatening weather is expected. Children are safer at school than in a bus or car. Students should not be sent home early if severe weather is approaching. Lunches or assemblies in large rooms should be delayed if severe weather is anticipated. Gymnasiums, cafeterias, and auditoriums offer no protection from tornado-strength winds. Move students quickly into interior rooms or hallways on the lowest floor. Have them assume the tornado protection position (shown at right). Hospitals, nursing homes, and other institutions should develop a similar plan Your National Weather Service, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and American Red Cross educate community officials and the public concerning the dangers posed by tornadoes. YOU can prepare for the possibility of a tornado by learning the safest places to seek shelter when at home, work, school, or outdoors. You should also understand basic weather terms and danger signs related to tornadoes. Your chances of staying safe during a tornado are greater if you have a plan for you and your family, and practice the plan frequently. FAMILY DISASTER PLAN Families should be prepared for all hazards that affect their area. NOAA's National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the American Red Cross urge each family to develop a family disaster plan. Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere - at work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disasters may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services - water, gas, electricity or telephones - were cut off? Follow these basic steps to develop a family disaster plan... I. Gather information about hazards. Contact your local National Weather Service office, emergency management or civil defense office, and American Red Cross chapter. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond. Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans. II. Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot outside your home for an emergency, such as fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Choose an out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate. III. Implement your plan. (1) Post emergency telephone numbers by phones; (2) Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; (3) Inspect your home for potential hazards (such as items that can move, fall, break, or catch fire) and correct them; (4) Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid; how to use a fire extinguisher; and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home; (5) Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number; (6) Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunk of your car. A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT SHOULD INCLUDE: A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil one change of clothing and footwear per person one blanket or sleeping bag per person a first-aid kit, including prescription medicines emergency tools, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries an extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members. IV. Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every six months. PLAN AHEAD: Identify where to go if told to evacuate. Choose several places...a friend's home or a motel in another town, or a shelter. GO TO HIGHER GROUND Know your area's flood risk. For information, call your local National Weather Service office, Red Cross chapter, or local emergency management agency. Check your homeowner's or renter's insurance. Homeowners' policies do not cover flooding. Contact your insurance agent to find out how to get flood insurance. flooding can occur NATIONWIDE! Even 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet, and a depth of 2 feet will float your car! NEVER try to walk, swim, or drive through such swift water. If you come upon flood waters, STOP! TURN AROUND AND GO ANOTHER WAY. SOME HISTORICAL NWS DATA Dam Break May 31, 1889 Johnstown, Pennsylvania... the worst flood in United States history.. 36-40 ft. wall of water...2,200 dead. River Flood December 1991/January 1992 South-central Texas... wide-spread river flooding on the Guadalupe, Brazos, Trinity, and Colorado River Basins... up to 17 inches of rain...15 dead...damages . Flash Flood Events June 14, 1990 Shadyside, Ohio... 4 inches of rain in less than 2 hours produced a 30-foot high wall of water... 26 dead...damages -8M. August 1, 1985 Cheyenne, Wyoming... 6 inches of rain in 3 hours... 12 dead...damages . Flooding Takes Many Forms... Flash flooding occurs within 6 hours of the rain event. Flooding is a longer term event and may last a week or more. RIVER FLOOD Flooding along rivers is a natural and inevitable part of life. Some floods occur seasonally when winter or spring rains, coupled with melting snows, fill river basins with too much water, too quickly. Torrential rains from decaying hurricanes or tropical systems can also produce river flooding. COASTAL FLOOD Winds generated from tropical storms and hurricanes or intense offshore low pressure systems can drive ocean water inland and cause significant flooding. Escape routes can be cut off and blocked by high water. Coastal flooding can also be produced by sea waves called tsunamis (tsoo-n„ -m z), sometimes referred to as tidal waves. These waves are produced by earthquakes or volcanic activity. NOTE: Coastal flooding caused by the storm surge associated with hurricanes is described in publication NOAA/PA 78019, "Storm Surge and Hurricane Safety." URBAN FLOOD As land is converted from fields or woodlands to roads and parking lots, it loses its ability to absorb rainfall. Urbanization increases runoff 2 to 6 times over what would occur on natural terrain. During periods of urban flooding, streets can become swift moving rivers, while basements can become death traps as they fill with water. FLASH FLOODING IN ARROYOS/WASHES An arroyo is a water-carved gully or normally dry creek bed. Arroyos can fill with fast-moving water very quickly. Flash flooding at this arroyo in Arizona took only 58 seconds to develop. ICE JAM Floating ice can accumulate at a natural or man-made obstruction and stop the flow of water. MANY FLASH FLOODS OCCUR AT NIGHT...BE PREPARED TO TAKE QUICK ACTION How can a foot or two of water cost you your life? Water weighs 62.4 lbs. per cubic foot and typically flows downstream at 6 to 12 miles an hour. When a vehicle stalls in the water, the water's momentum is transferred to the car. For each foot the water rises, 500 lbs. of lateral force are applied to the car. But the biggest factor is buoyancy. For each foot the water rises up the side of the car, the car displaces 1,500 lbs. of water. In effect, the car weighs 1,500 lbs. less for each foot the water rises. Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles. Before the flood... What YOU can do: Know your flood risk and elevation above flood stage. - Do your local streams or rivers flood easily? If so, be prepared to move to a place of safety. Know your evacuation routes. Keep your automobile fueled; if electric power is cut off, gas stations may not be able to operate pumps for several days. Store drinking water in clean bathtubs and in various containers. Water service may be interrupted. Keep a stock of food that requires little cooking and no refrigeration; electric power may be interrupted. Keep first aid supplies on hand. Keep a NOAA Weather Radio, a battery-powered portable radio, emergency cooking equipment, and flashlights in working order. Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home. Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing: first aid kit, canned food and can opener, bottled water, rubber boots, rubber gloves, NOAA Weather Radio, battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries. What YOUR community can do: Assist hospitals and other operations which are critically affected by power failure by arranging for auxiliary power supplies. River/rainfall readings are valuable to local emergency management agencies (EMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) in assessing flood conditions and taking appropriate actions. Advanced warning provided by early detection is critical to saving lives. Automatic flood detection systems are available commercially for flood-prone communities. Contact your local NWS office or emergency management agency for further information on LOCAL FLOOD WARNING SYSTEMS. STAY INFORMED ABOUT THE STORM by listening to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, and television for the latest flash flood/flood WATCHES, WARNINGS, and ADVISORIES. NOAA WEATHER RADIO IS THE BEST MEANS TO RECEIVE WARNINGS FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE. The National Weather Service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts that can be received by NOAA Weather Radios sold in many stores. Average range is 40 miles, depending on topography. Your National Weather Service recommends purchasing a radio that has both a battery backup and a tone-alert feature which automatically alerts you when a watch or warning is issued. What to Listen For... FLASH FLOOD OR FLOOD WATCH: Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated WATCH area be alert. FLASH FLOOD OR FLOOD WARNING: Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent take necessary precautions at once. URBAN AND SMALL STREAM ADVISORY: Flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains, is occurring. FLASH FLOOD OR FLOOD STATEMENT: Follow-up information regarding a flash flood/flood event. The rule for being safe in a flooding situation is simple: HEAD FOR HIGHER GROUND AND STAY AWAY FROM FLOOD WATERS! TAKE ACTION! When a flash flood WATCH is issued Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice. When a flash flood WARNING is issued for your area, or the moment you realize that a flash flood is imminent, act quickly to save yourself. You may have only SECONDS! Go to higher ground Climb to safety! Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc. Avoid already flooded and high velocity flow areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roadways! If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember, it's better to be wet than dead! Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers. Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions. When you receive a FLOOD WARNING: If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water. continue monitoring NOAA Weather Radio, television, or emergency broadcast station for information. During the flood: Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, STOP! Turn around and go another way. Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped. Children should NEVER play around high water, storm drains, viaducts, or arroyos. After the flood: If fresh food has come in contact with flood waters, throw it out. Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking. If in doubt, call your local public health authority. Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter, and first aid are available from the Red Cross. Do not visit disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations. Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service. Use flashlights, not lanterns, torches or matches, to examine buildings. Flammables may be inside. Report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities. FAMILY DISASTER PLAN Families should be prepared for all hazards that affect their area. NOAA's National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the American Red Cross urge each family to develop a family disaster plan. Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere at work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disasters may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services water, gas, electricity or telephones were cut off? Follow these basic steps to develop a family disaster plan... I. Gather information about hazards. Contact your local National Weather Service office, emergency management or civil defense office, and American Red Cross chapter. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond. Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans. II. Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot outside your home for an emergency, such as fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Choose an out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate. III. Implement your plan. (1) Post emergency telephone numbers by phones; (2) Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; (3) Inspect your home for potential hazards (such as items that can move, fall, break, or catch fire) and correct them; (4) Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid; how to use a fire extinguisher; and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home; (5) Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number; (6) Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunk of your car. A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT SHOULD INCLUDE: A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil one change of clothing and footwear per person one blanket or sleeping bag per person a first aid kit, including prescription medicines emergency tools, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries an extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members. IV. Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every six months.

SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY
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