Southern United States Braces for Severe Weather Outbreak

Potential for Tornadoes, Damaging Winds and Large Hail Across Mississippi Valley

The Southern United States is bracing for a severe weather outbreak that poses a threat of dangerous tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail across the Mississippi Valley. The National Weather Service has advised people to be prepared and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.

Experts recommend taking safety precautions, including acting quickly and taking shelter immediately when warned, treating severe thunderstorm warnings as tornado warnings, and finding a safe shelter in advance if living in mobile or manufactured homes. The Governor of Kansas has also issued a disaster declaration due to potential wildfires and severe storms.

As part of their preparation, emergency response crews in St. Louis are getting ready for potentially severe weather. MoDOT and IDOT crews are clearing drains while utility companies like Ameren keep an eye on the weather and ready to restore power if necessary.

American Red Cross Offers Resources for Emergency Preparation

American Red Cross crews are also preparing emergency supplies and suggest that people should do the same. It’s essential to prepare a basic emergency kit with supplies that can last for up to three days for each family member, including water, non-perishable food, prescription medications, and first aid kits.

Volunteers with the Red Cross are also on standby to provide people with a safe shelter and guidance on how to stay safe during the storm. Ameren customers can sign up for outage alerts to track restoration times more easily.

Fire Departments Recommend Being Prepared

Fire departments recommend being prepared for severe weather season by stocking up on necessities and understanding safety measures. Community Risk Reduction Officer for Harlem Roscoe Fire, Jen Anderson, advises having a winter car kit and home safety kit containing food, water, blankets, flashlights, and medication.

If power goes out for more than four hours, refrigerated items such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, and leftovers should be thrown out. It is essential to be aware of downed powerlines during severe weather and not approach any downed wires – report them to ComEd.

In case of high winds, stay away from windows and if possible, stay at home. ComEd recommends staying up to date on outages through their website or app. If driving during severe weather, be mindful of safe driving and turn around if unsure of water depth on streets.

As the potential for severe weather increases across the United States, it is vital to remain vigilant and prepared. By taking necessary precautions and having emergency supplies ready in advance, families can minimize the risks posed by dangerous weather conditions.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons