Springtime can be unpredictable, with fluctuating temperatures and conditions that can quickly change. This year, consider adding a new item to your spring cleaning to-do list: making sure you and your loved ones are prepared for severe weather.
2013 Spring Outlook:
This year, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts above-average temperatures across much of the United States. While spring brings warmer temperatures, it also bring conditions that can lead to heavy rains, severe weather and flood risks.
These tips will help you keep your family safe and prepared for severe weather.
Understand Severe Weather Terms:
Understanding severe weather definitions and terms can help you and your loved ones prepare for changing conditions.
- Severe Thunderstorm Watch: There is a possibility that severe thunderstorms may occur in your area.
- Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A severe thunderstorm is occurring or will likely occur soon in your area.
- Flash Flood Watch: Due to heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time, your area may experience flooding.
- Flash Flood Warning: Flash flooding is in progress, imminent, or highly likely. Seek higher ground immediately or evacuate if directed to do so.
- Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms.
- Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.
Prepare For Severe Weather:
Be prepared for severe weather by downloading the Ready Virginia mobile app to receive alerts for changing conditions. Additional steps that you can take to keep yourself and loved ones safe include:
- Have an emergency kit prepared with supplies such as an alternate fuel source for heating your home, flashlights and batteries in your home and car, blankets, food that needs no cooking or refrigeration, a 3 day supply of water, prescription medicines, a battery operated radio, flashlights, and cell phone chargers. A supply checklist with basic items that every supply kit should include is available for download.
- Prepare your vehicle with emergency supplies and have maintenance service on your vehicle as often as the manufacturer recommends.
- Check batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors.
- Update important documents, such as insurance information and your home inventory, and store them in your emergency kit or a water proof container.
Know What To Do During Severe Weather:
