There is a common joke in Kansas – and many parts of the country – that goes something like this: If you don’t like the weather right now, just wait a few minutes.
Kansas State University meteorologist Chip Redmond agrees that weather in Kansas can change pretty quickly, so it’s important to know what to do in any situation in order to remain safe.
“It starts with preparedness,” said Redmond, who is also manager of the Kansas Mesonet. “We all should have a plan, including such things as just knowing how you get your weather alerts. You may get those from a weather radio or other sources, such as news media. And then, you need to talk with your family.”
The National Weather Service has declared March 4-8 as Severe Weather Preparedness Week across the country, encouraging all people to practice what they would do if faced with a real weather emergency.
“Practicing and having a plan saves lives,” Redmond said. “That is especially true in rural areas where appropriate shelter may be many miles away, a scenario many Kansans may be in.”
Redmond said having a “Go” bag -- something you can quickly grab and take to a shelter -- is important for most weather emergencies. The bag should include such items as medicines, extra clothes, radio, food, water and even something to keep kids entertained.
The best place to wait out severe weather “is always the lowest, central location in the home,” Redmond said. “If you only have a first floor – and not a basement – the ideal spot is a centrally located hallway or bathroom. Stay away from windows.”
If caught outside, “don’t go under trees during thunderstorms and don’t try to out-run tornadoes in your car,” Redmond said.
“A ditch, believe it or not, is a really safe place to go if you’re outside. Get down in the ditch; debris will typically blow over you. If you’re in a place without a ditch, get down on the ground as low as you can so you don’t have things hitting you. Just be aware if water is rising rapidly.”
For specific weather emergencies, Redmond shared additional tips:
- Lightning
- Get inside. Avoid porches and over-hangs. “You can still get hit by lightning in those areas,” he said.
- Stay away from windows.
- Stay off electronics that are hooked into a wall, including computer and cell phone.
Stay out of the shower, or other water sources.
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Categories: Kansas, Weather