DES MOINES – Today, at the Administration’s weekly press conference, Gov. Terry E. Branstad proclaimed March 21-25, 2016, as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Iowa. The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEMD), the National Weather Service (NWS) and local emergency managers have again joined together to promote severe weather awareness and family preparedness.
“Unfortunately, Iowans are all too familiar with the potential impact that severe weather can have on our state,” said Branstad. “Severe Weather Awareness Week is a reminder to Iowa families and businesses that they should take time and review their own emergency disaster preparedness plans to ensure you are best able to deal with severe weather.”
For each day during Severe Weather Awareness Week, a different subject will be featured:
· Monday – Severe thunderstorms
· Tuesday – Weather warnings
· Wednesday – Tornadoes
· Thursday – Family preparedness
· Friday – Flash floods
The annual tornado drill will take place on Wednesday, March 23, at approximately 10 a.m. Schools, businesses, state and local governments, and individuals are strongly encouraged to participate in the drill. Additional information about the tornado drill can be found on local NWS websites.
“Severe Weather Awareness Week is the perfect time to practice our emergency plans and review the items in our emergency supply kits,” said HSEMD Director Mark Schouten. “A vital part of being prepared is being aware. A great tool to receive weather warnings is Alert Iowa, our statewide mass notification system.” At this time, 79 of Iowa’s 99 counties are sending alerts via this system. Learn more about Alert Iowa at www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov.
Brochures and fact sheets about severe weather safety and family preparedness are available for download on the Ready Iowa site and NWS websites. Additional information can be found on social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, throughout the week using hashtag #IASWAW. Logos, graphics, and a copy of the governor’s proclamation can also be found on the Ready Iowa website.
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