Awareness and Preparedness - Severe Weather Awareness

Tuesday, April 9th, 2024 -- 6:01 AM

Being aware and prepared for severe weather events can save our lives and limit damage to our property.

The National Weather Service issues Hazardous Weather Outlooks up to 5 days in advance.  These outlooks are updated multiple times per day with the latest information and forecast trends. The Storm Prediction Center issues Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Watch areas when forecast indicate the potential of severe weather. These can be issued up to 6 hours ahead of any storm developement. Be prepared to take shelter if a storm approches your area. Local National Weather Service offices issue Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Warnings based on local radar and trained spotter and law enforcement reports. When a warning is issued take shelter immediately. 

Today we focus on strong winds and lightning. 

During thunderstorms, wind can create the most damage.  Homes are built to withstand winds from low level storm winds greater than 58 mph. However, things like trash cans and patio furnature are not. They can become dangerous projectiles and be damage by the wind.  Remember to put these items indoors when severe weather threatens. Also tree branches can break in strong winds, remember to park your car inside a sturdy structure or away from trees. One thing to remember is that strong winds may come before the rain in severe storms. This is known as a gust front. It can produce winds in excess of 58 mph. Some severe thunderstorms can produce straight line winds that can be in excess of 100 mph damaging homes and property. In 1980, this type of straight line wind event happened west of Eau Claire and caused over $160 million dollars in damage ruining homes and toppling radio transmission towers. Strong storm winds can also create large waves and swells on open bodies of water that can overturn small boats and canoes.

Lightning is a major safety concern during thunderstorms. Know the risks and how to protect yourself from lightning strikes.
• All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous. Since 2006, lightning has killed an average of 28 people in the U.S. each year. During that time period, it also has killed ten people and injured at least 41 in Wisconsin.
• Lightning often strikes outside the area of heavy rain and may strike as far as 10 miles from any rainfall.
• If you hear thunder, you are in danger! Anytime thunder is heard, the storm is close enough to pose an immediate threat to your location.
• Have a lightning safety plan. Designate a safe location before the event starts. Have specific guidelines for suspending the activity so that everyone has time to reach safety.
• Prior to a sporting practice or outdoor event, check the latest forecast. If thunderstorms are expected, consider postponing activities early to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation.
• If you hear thunder, suspend your activity immediately and instruct everyone to get to a safe place. Substantial buildings provide the best protection. Avoid sheds, open shelters, dugouts, bleachers, and grandstands. If a sturdy building is not nearby, a hard-topped
metal vehicle with windows closed will offer good protection. Do not crouch or lie down—continue moving toward shelter.
• If boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter.
• Do not resume activities until 30 minutes have passed since the last thunder was heard. 

Knowledge and good judgement can save your life in a severe weather event. For more information on Wisconsin's Severe Weather Awareness Week you can go to any of the local National Weather Service Office websites or to Wisconsin Emergency Managements website at wem.wi.gov. 

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.