National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Courtesy
GRAND ISLAND — Today kicks off ‘Severe Weather Awareness Week’ in both Nebraska and Iowa, and it has emergency management departments across the two-state region conducting informative campaigns.
Each day, the National Weather Service will have a theme to help residents prepare for the possible weather events ahead, including lightning, tornadoes, flooding and hail.
The week will also be highlighted by a tornado drill that will take place at 10 a.m./CT on Wednesday, March 27. As part of the drill, dispatchers are being encouraged to fan-out the message to test emergency communication capabilities and local spotting activation procedures.
Many local schools, businesses, hospitals and other agencies are also expected to take part by executing their plans in the event of a tornado. However, in Nebraska, it’s well-known that tornadoes are far from the only threat to be mindful of. That’s why Hall County Emergency Management Director Jon Rosenlund says being proactive is key.
“Stay up to date,” Rosenlund said. “If you look at a weather forecast in the morning that’s good, but that forecast can and will change.”
Rosenlund adds that technology has helped their messaging take shape in recent years.
“Everyone I know has a smart phone,” Rosenlund said. “I would encourage you to find a weather app with a warning system on it or some information that would alert you during a severe weather event.”
To hear more from Rosenlund, please click the download link at the top of this e-mail. For more information, please contact Communications Manager Spencer Schubert at spencers@grand-island.com.
