Have a Plan for Severe Weather Events

Severe Weather Awareness Week was March 20-26 but particularly in Michigan, it's a good idea to be aware of the weather outside your window year round. You are likely familiar with the term, "Don't like the weather in Michigan? Just wait five minutes." Indeed, the variable weather in our state has made many a local weather forecaster appear to not know what they are talking about. From snowstorms to flooding to heat advisories, Michigan has it all.

The city of Detroit Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department has prepared an informational page about spring weather hazards for residents. The page urges everyone to be alert when a severe thunderstorm watch or warning has been issued. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) warns that lightning is a leading cause of injury and death. High winds that come with storms pose a threat as well, and FEMA urges everyone to move indoors and away from trees during a thunderstorm.

Severe storms can also produce tornados which can destroy buildings and cars and create deadly flying debris. In Michigan, there are about 15 tornados each year, and their winds can reach over 200 mph. When a tornado warning has been issued, FEMA advises you find shelter right away until an all-clear has been announced. Ideally, go to a basement or storm cellar, if there is no basement, go to the smallest interior room on your home's lowest level. Stay away from windows and outside walls. If you are outdoors, go to a low, flat location, but avoid trying to hide under an overpass or bridge; high winds could create a wind tunnel effect and hurl debris at dangerously high speeds causing severe injury or even death. Anyone hiding under a bridge or overpass may even be sucked out and carried away by the wind. Following a thunderstorm or tornado be sure to stay away from fallen power lines or broken utility lines or poles. If you do lose power, MIREADY, an informational program of the Michigan State Police, suggests using flashlights for emergency lighting rather than candles due to the fire risk. Keep both the refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain cold temperatures. A closed refrigerator will keep food cold for several hours and a closed freezer will be good for about 48 hours. Unplug large appliances and computers in case of a momentary power surge which can damage them. If you are using a generator, be sure to run it outdoors only and keep the generator a minimum of 15 feet away from open doors or windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never run a generator in a garage.

FEMA says flooding is the most common natural disaster in the U.S. Flooding can happen slowly or quickly, and flash floods often come with no warning. Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Evacuate if directed by authorities to do so. Have an evacuation plan in place to be prepared if a flood strikes. Make sure drains and gutters are clear if a large rainfall is expected. If necessary, move valuable to a higher level in the home. If your home floods, be aware that animals and snakes may be in your home as you begin the clean-up process. Avoid wading in floodwater as downed or underground power lines can electrically charge the water. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water.

MIREADY suggest creating an emergency preparedness kit to have handy in case of a severe weather event. Include bottled water, food, batteries, portable radio, first aid kit, a whistle to signal for help, and moist towelettes.

To find out more about severe weather emergency preparedness go to http://www.detroitmi.gov and enter Severe Weather in the search box. Also find valuable information at http://www.michigan.gov/miready.