Thursday, March 7, 2013

Severe Weather Prep Week: Where To Go

Do you know where to go if severe weather strikes? If not, you're in luck, because that's the topic of today's post for Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

IF YOU'RE INSIDE: Most people have a plan in place if they're home and severe weather strikes. If you have a basement, go there. If not, you want to go to the innermost room on the the lowest level of your house. In all cases, you want to stay away from windows since strong winds can blow them out and create flying debris.

IF YOU'RE OUTSIDE: Being outside is a lot trickier because you are more exposed to the elements, which makes for a much more dangerous situation. If you can find a reinforced shelter nearby (A house, building, or storm shelter), that's your first option. If that's not possible, look for a ditch or low lying area. The lower you are, the better chance you have of avoiding flying debris. These same tips apply if you're in a mobile home or car.

Do NOT hide in an overpass. Since it's an enclosed space, an overpass acts as a wind tunnel. Winds actually speed up and flying debris becomes more dangerous. This video by TornadoVideos.net illustrates just that.


The National Weather Service also has an article on this. Check it out here.

Regardless of where you are, make sure you have a plan and know what to do if severe weather strikes where you are. -BA

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