How-To: Spring Weather Preparedness

Did you know that America is the most severe weather-prone country on Earth? 

It’s true! But you can take steps to be ready to withstand any kind of inclement weather this spring. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are a few of the common weather dangers for Mississippians.

Severe thunderstorms are defined as storms capable of producing hail an inch or larger or winds above 58 miles per hour. Hail from these storms can be larger than a softball and winds can reach over 100 miles per hour. Tornadoes, lightning, and flash flooding are all possible hazards that can develop when severe thunderstorms occur. 

Take time now to get ready for severe weather:

• Pay attention to the local weather forecast and know what weather terms mean.
• Review your severe weather safety procedures and plan.
• Know the safest place to be if severe weather arrives.
• Have multiple ways to get weather warnings.

Do you know the difference between a watch and a warning? In a watch, severe weather is possible, and you should be on the lookout and be prepared. In a warning, severe weather is happening or about to happen, and you should take shelter.

Don’t have a disaster plan? The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency breaks down the steps for putting together a plan that works for your family. 

Start by developing your specific plan based on what kinds of disasters you could experience and how you will respond. Consider your family’s unique needs based on whether you have children, elderly family members, pets or service animals, dietary needs, medical needs, etc. Write down your plan and practice it with your family. Get detailed steps, more information, and ways to cope with storm anxiety on the MEMA website. 

It’s also critical to have an emergency kit stocked and ready to go. Even an extended power outage could cause you to need an emergency kit. If you don’t have one, check out MEMA’s detailed list to help build your kit.