2 weeks Ago By Kevin Cole Omaha World-Herald
Being prepared for Nebraska’s weather extremes from blizzards to tornadoes may never have been more on the minds of the state’s residents. “It always has been important, but we have noticed that people are more aware following the (April 26) EF4 tornado that hit last year,” Becky Kern, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Valley, said Monday. “People are paying a little more attention than years past.
” Knowing where to seek shelter during severe weather should be something Nebraskans prepare for long in advance of an emergency. The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency and the weather service are highlighting that message during the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week that concludes Friday. Each day this week, the National Weather Service is reviewing steps to prepare for severe weather from lightning strikes to floods on its website .
A tornado drill for the entire state will be conducted Wednesday at 10 a.m. CDT.
The drill will be broadcast on NOAA All Hazard Radio, a nationwide network broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the nearest office. “Preparing for severe weather is something we should actively do year-round, said Erv Portis, the assistant director of NEMA. “Don’t wait until the siren sounds to start looking for your families’ essential items.
” NEMA suggests residents gather supplies that will last for several days for everyone living in the home in the event of a disaster. The agency’s website provides a list of items to include. “Nebraskans have already faced dangerous fire weather this year,” Portis said.
“Make sure everyone in your home knows and understands what to do if you were asked to evacuate on short notice.”.
