Columns

Friday, May 7, 2004

common sense on severe storm safety

It is often said that if you do not like the weather in Iowa, just wait ten minutes and it will change. This is especially true in springtime, when violent weather systems frequently come crashing through our state. A calm, sunny day can turn into a destructive thunderstorm in what seems like minutes. So during this volatile season, it is smart to be on guard. Tune in to weather reports regularly to find out if severe weather is expected in your area. Just knowing that severe weather is possible can make a huge difference. In addition, you need to have a plan of action before danger rears its head. Here are some basic tips that could save your life: If a tornado warning is issued in your area: ? At home, go to the basement, if you have one -- or to an interior room on the lowest level. Wrap yourself in blankets or whatever is handy to protect against flying debris. ? In your car or mobile home, get out immediately. Find the nearest sturdy building. If there is not one nearby, lie flat in the nearest ditch, ravine or depression. Use your hands to protect your head. If a flash flood warning is issued for your area: ? At home, evacuate immediately and head for the hills, literally. Move to higher ground. ? In your car, under no circumstances should you attempt to drive through a flooded area. According to the National Weather Service, two feet of water is enough to easily carry away most cars. Also, the road underneath the water may no longer be intact. Driving through flooded areas is the No. 1 cause of death during flash floods, so avoid water-covered roadways, no matter how shallow they may look. ? If you are outdoors, move to higher ground. Avoid streams, low spots and other flood-prone areas. And, just as in a car, avoid areas covered by moving water. If two feet of water will sweep away a car, it will take less to sweep you away. If intense lightning is in your area: ? Avoid using the phone, electrical appliances, or taking a shower or bath. ? If you are caught outside, seek shelter in a building or a cluster of shorter trees. ? Stay clear of tall objects such as isolated trees, windmills or antennas.

In Iowa, it is not a matter of if severe weather will strike, it is a matter of when. So stay alert. Be prepared. And keep yourself and your loved ones safe.