RALEIGH — Governor Roy Cooper has declared March 6-12 as a stormy weather preparation week, urging North Carolina residents to prepare for the stormy weather that is common in the spring months.
“North Carolina is no wonder of stormy weather. Spring is usually the most active season of thunderstorms and tornadoes, but it can happen at any time,” said Governor Cooper. “Help protect your family in case of bad weather. Make sure you have the latest emergency kits, how to receive alerts about dangerous weather, and a preparation plan for the whole family to check.”
Governor Cooper also encourages North Carolina citizens to participate in state-wide tornado training at 9:30 am on Wednesday, March 9. Doors and windows.
Tornadoes occur when the wind changes direction and speeds up during a heavy thunderstorm. These storms can produce large hail and harmful winds that can reach 300 mph. Tornadoes can occur rapidly with few warnings, so planning can help them respond quickly.
“I encourage everyone to participate in this year’s state-wide tornado training at home, at work, or at school. Planning and knowing a designated safe place is a real tornado. It’s a great help to survive, “said Will Ray, Director of Emergency Management.
The test message will be broadcast on Wednesday, March 9, at 9:30 am on radio and television, and on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) meteorological radio, via an emergency alert system announcing the start of tornado training.
Throughout the state in 2021, North Carolina recorded 21 tornado touchdowns, 101 major hail storms, 344 thunderstorm damage, and 109 flood or flash flood events. This includes the remains of Tropical Storm Fred, which caused a deadly flood in western North Carolina.
Emergency management authorities recommend the following safety tips:
— Make a family emergency plan and let each member know what to do in an emergency, where to go, and who to call.
— If you hear thunder, go indoors! Lightning is close enough to hit you.
— Know where the nearest safe room is, such as a basement or a room away from windows.
— Know the term: WATCH means that bad weather can occur. The warning means that bad weather is occurring. Please evacuate immediately.
— Assemble an emergency supply kit for use at home or in the car. Be sure to include a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and bottled water.
— If you are driving, leave your car immediately and evacuate to a safe place. Do not try to overtake the tornado in the car or stop under an elevated road or bridge.
— If no shelter is available, hide in a flat, lowland area.
Find more information online about tornadoes and overall emergency preparedness at ReadyNC.gov.
