Iowa Severe Weather Awareness Week 2024

As we welcome the arrival of spring, it’s time to get ready for the challenges that come with fluctuating temperatures. From March 25th to the 29th, Iowa will be preparing for storm season by spending the week going over refreshers on how to stay safe and prepare for different severe weather events. This preparedness week has been designated by the National Weather Service (NOAA) to remind people of the importance of being informed and ready for any potential threats caused by nature. 

There will be a tornado drill conducted by the National Weather Service on Wednesday, the 27th, at 10 am CDT / 9 am MDT via the NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio. Your local area may also activate warning sirens for added safety awareness.

Each day focuses on a different topic: Monday – severe thunderstorms, Tuesday – warning information, Wednesday – tornadoes, Thursday – family preparedness, and Friday – flash floods. 

Monday: Severe Thunderstorms 

Severe thunderstorms are storms capable of producing hail that is an inch or larger and/or wind gusts exceeding 58 mph. Hail of this size can damage property, while strong winds can break branches, topple trees, or cause structural damage. Some severe storms can even produce hail 2-4 inches in parameter or winds over 100 mph, so it’s crucial to stay weather-aware and prepared. Thunderstorms also bring the risk of tornadoes, dangerous lightning, and flash flooding. 

There is a saying that goes “when thunder roars, go indoors” and this is because outdoor locations are not safe during thunderstorms. Taking shelter immediately is crucial because the closer you hear the thunder; the closer lightning is to potentially strike nearby. You need to get inside of a sturdy building or vehicle quickly and avoid open areas, tall objects, metal, and water.  

If you find yourself outdoors with no shelter during a thunderstorm and are concerned about the risk of being struck by lightning, there are several precautions you can take to lessen your chances of getting hit: 

• DO NOT be on high ground like a hill or by isolated objects such as a tree, light poles, or telephone poles.  
• If you are with other people, make sure to separate so that the current from the lighting doesn’t travel between individuals.
• Crouch down low to the ground with your feet close together. Minimize your contact with the ground by keeping your feet together and avoid lying flat on the ground.
• The best place to be is in a ditch, valley, ravine, or any low area.
• STAY AWAY from water and metal. These items do not attract lightning, but they are perfect conductors of electricity. 
• Note: if you are camping, tents do not offer protection from lightning. 

When looking for shelter note that buildings with plumbing and electricity are the safer option during thunderstorms because they are typically grounded, meaning they have metal components that act as conductors, and are constructed with materials that provide better insulation and protection from electrical hazards. Even being in a metal-topped vehicle with closed windows is better than being in a dugout or gazebo. Once in a sheltered location there are several things to avoid doing during a thunderstorm: 

• Defer from using corded electrical equipment such as TV’s, phones, computers. 
• Avoid plumbing, do not wash your hands, take a shower, wash dishes, or flush the toilet. 
• Stay clear from exterior doors/windows, balconies, porches and out of open garages or car ports.  
• Do not lay down or against concrete surfaces. 
• Bring your pets inside, dog houses are not safe shelters. 
• Prepare and protect your property by installing surge protectors, securing outdoor objects, trimming trees and branches, and maintaining a lightning safety plan. 

Before a Thunderstorm

It’s essential to always stay prepared, including before, during, and after a storm event. Before a thunderstorm strikes, take the necessary precautions: 

• Stay weather-ready by checking forecasts from reputable sources like Superstorm, Iowa Storm Chasing Network or NOAA. 
• Sign up for weather notifications on your preferred weather apps to receive alerts about severe weather conditions. 
• Create a communications plan with an emergency meeting place in your home, workplace, or school. 
• Get a documented baseline of your property. This ensures your insurance carrier has an accurate comparison of your property’s condition before the storm, clarifying the impact from the thunderstorm. 
• Practice your plan annually and ensure you and your loved ones know what to do during severe thunderstorms. 
• Prepare your home by reinforcing loose objects outside. 

During a thunderstorm: 

• Continue to stay informed by listening to reputable sources, staying updated on weather changes, and watching for alerts. 
• Take shelter in a secure location, away from windows, and bring pets with you.
• Avoid large open rooms like living rooms, cafeterias, or auditoriums. 
• Seek shelter immediately if outside.
• If in a vehicle, drive to the closest secure shelter if there’s enough time. 

After a thunderstorm: 

• Stay informed about additional severe weather warnings.
• Contact family and friends to let them know you’re safe.
• Wear protective clothing while checking your property for damages.
• Call emergency services right away if you spot any hazards like fallen wires, trees, or other life-threatening damages.
• Help injured individuals if trained and/or capable.
• Have the company that conducted the initial baseline evaluation return to perform an after-storm assessment of your property. This comparison will help determine the extent of damages caused specifically by the storm.
• Be cautious of insurance scammers by verifying the legitimacy of any individual or company offering insurance services or assistance with claims. Check their credentials, reviews, and reputation with credible sources. 

Staying prepared for a thunderstorm before it happens, during the event, and after is the best way to ensure you and your loved one’s safety. 

Tuesday: Receiving Warning Information 

Make sure that wherever you are receiving your weather information from is a trustworthy source. It is also best advised to have several different ways you receive updates and alerts. Different sources include alerts from news apps, wireless weather alert radio, local sirens, social media and more.  

Have a knowledgeable understanding of the different alert types and what they mean. 

Advisory: Signifies “be aware.” This indicates that weather conditions may cause significant inconvenience but are not expected to be hazardous enough to warrant a warning. Examples include winter weather advisories or dense fog advisories. 

Watch: Signifies “be prepared.” A watch indicates that conditions are conducive to severe weather development, although the event has yet to form. During a watch, proactive measures such as staying informed and having a pre-established plan are essential, ensuring readiness to act promptly if needed. 

Warning: Signifies “take action now.” It is issued when severe weather is imminent or actively occurring within the warned area. Immediate and decisive action, such as seeking shelter or implementing safety protocols, becomes imperative to safeguard oneself and others from storm related threats. 

The difference between a watch and a warning for a specific severe weather event, such as a severe thunderstorm, tornado, or flash flood, is solely determined by which weather conditions are favorable for that event. Your weather alerts from your chosen reputable source will specify which one you should prepare for by stating if it’s a ‘tornado watch,’ ‘flood watch,’ ‘thunderstorm watch,’ or ‘tornado warning,’ ‘flood warning,’ ‘thunderstorm warning.’ 

Wednesday: Tornadoes 

A tornado is a formidable force of nature that forms when a powerful thunderstorm creates swirling air inside it. First, warm air rises and mixes with colder air, making a spinning vortex. This vortex collects water vapor and forms a funnel cloud. Then, cool air pushes down on the funnel cloud, making it smaller and faster. When this spinning funnel cloud touches the ground, it becomes a tornado. 

Tornadoes typically occur in a region known as “Tornado Alley,” which is located in the central United States. This narrow region encompasses parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Ohio, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, and Missouri. Other states that sometimes find themselves included are Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Montana, and eastern portions of Colorado and Wyoming. The term “Tornado Alley” originates from the higher concentration of tornadoes observed here, typically resulting from the clash of warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico with cool, dry air from the Rocky Mountains. These atmospheric dynamics create an environment conducive to tornado formation, making Tornado Alley a hotspot for severe weather events. It’s important to note that tornadoes can form at any time during the year, day, or night, and they have been documented in every state in the United States, not solely limited to “Tornado Alley.” 

Tornadoes are incredibly destructive, capable of demolishing buildings, uprooting mature trees, and hurling objects like cars at deadly speeds. It’s crucial to put as much distance as possible between yourself and a tornado. Even if you’re not right next to one, its reach can still be dangerous. The distance you need to be from a tornado varies greatly depending on its size and strength, but generally, it’s safest to be several miles away to avoid being swept up by its powerful winds. Do keep in mind that tornadoes can have strong winds extending beyond their visible funnel clouds. Therefore, always seek shelter and stay informed about tornado warnings for your safety. 

Understanding what to do before, during, and after a tornado can significantly reduce your risk of harm and improve your chances of survival. 

Before the Tornado: 

• Stay weather-ready by checking forecasts regularly from well-established sources like Superstorm, Iowa Storm Chasing Network or NOAA. 
• Sign up for weather notifications on your preferred weather apps to receive alerts about severe weather conditions.  
• Create a plan with an emergency meeting place in your home, workplace, or school. 
• Practice your tornado drill regularly. 
• Prepare your home by reinforcing loose objects outside. 
• Get a documented baseline of your property. This ensures your insurance carrier has an accurate comparison of your property’s condition before the storm, clarifying the impact from the tornado. 
• Encourage others to prepare as well. 

During the Tornado: 

• Continue to stay informed by listening to dependable sources, staying updated on weather changes, and watching for alerts.
• If sirens begin to sound that indicates a tornado has been spotted and to take shelter immediately.
• Have a weather radio on hand to stay updated on conditions in case of lack of service, or if phone lines go down and connection is lost.  
• Inside 
  • Take shelter in a basement, storm cellar, safe room or lower-level room without any windows and bring pets with you. 
  • If you are in a mobile home, tent, or a house without a basement, pinpoint nearby safe structures for quick refuge, such as a church, community center, or the residence of a trusted family member or friend. 
  • Avoid large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, auditoriums, or living rooms during a tornado. These rooms have less structural stability, and their roofs are more likely to collapse. 
  • Bring essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a first aid kit to sustain yourself until the danger has passed.
• Outside
  • If caught outdoors find a ditch or low area and lie flat while covering your neck and head. This reduces exposer to flying debris and you being taken by strong winds.
  • If there is no ditch or low area find any area away from objects that could be thrown and crouch down low to the ground and protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid seeking shelter under bridges or overpasses, as they offer little protection and can be dangerous due to flying debris and wind tunnel effects.
  • Never stay in a vehicle during a tornado. They are easily overturned by the strong winds.
  • Stay away from trees, power lines, and other structures that could collapse or cause injury. 

After the Tornado: 

• Once the tornado passes, move to a safer location as soon as it is safe to do so. 
• Stay informed about additional severe weather and tornado activity. 
• Contact family and friends to let them know you’re safe. 
• Wear protective clothing while checking your property for damages. 
• Call emergency services right away if you spot any hazards like fallen wires, trees, or other life-threatening damages. 
• Help injured individuals if trained and/or capable. 
• Have the company that conducted the initial baseline evaluation return to perform an after-storm assessment of your property. This comparison will help determine the extent of the damage caused specifically by the storm. 
• Be cautious of insurance scammers by verifying the legitimacy of any individual or company offering insurance services or assistance with claims. Check their credentials, reviews, and reputation with relevant authorities or organizations. 

Staying prepared for a tornado before it happens, during the event, and after is the best way to ensure you and your loved ones are safe. 

Thursday: Family Preparedness 

Ensuring the safety and well-being of you and your family during emergencies is important. By taking proactive steps and being prepared, you can effectively handle unforeseen situations and minimize risks. Here are three essential components of family preparedness to help you navigate through challenging times: 

Build a Kit: 

Your emergency supply kit should include: 

• Non-perishable food items (canned goods, granola bars, dried food, etc.). 
• Filtered water (at least one gallon per person per day). 
• First aid kit with essential medical supplies (prescription medications, bandages, tweezers, pain relievers, etc.).  
• Multi-tool, Swiss army knife, scissors. 
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and flashlight. Grab extra batteries if they are needed. 
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.). 
• Copies of important documents (identification cards, insurance policies, medical records etc.). 
• Blankets or sleeping bags. 
• Whistle to signal for help. 
• A blanket, extra clothing, and sturdy shoes. 
• Entertainment items (books, coloring sheets, games, etc.). 

Make a Plan: 

Create an emergency plan that includes: 

• Evacuation routes and meeting locations for your family. 
• Contact information for family members and emergency services. 
• Instructions for turning off utilities (gas, water, electricity). 
• Special considerations for pets or individuals with medical needs. 
• Practice drills to ensure everyone knows what to do during an emergency. 

Be Aware: 

Learn about hazards that can affect your community, such as: 

• Severe weather (tornadoes, thunderstorms, winter storms)
• Flooding
• Power outages

Stay informed about current weather and road conditions using resources like: 

• NOAA Weather Radio
• Iowa Storm Chasing Network
• Iowa Department of Transportation website
• Being prepared and making sure your family is prepared is the best way to survive a natural disaster

Friday: Flash Flooding

Flash floods pose a year-round threat across all 50 states of the USA, with coastal regions facing heightened risk. While Iowa generally experiences lower susceptibility to extreme flooding, the state remains susceptible to flash floods, particularly during periods of elevated rainfall in the spring and summer. These conditions can lead to riverbanks overflowing and subsequent road closures. 

Floods can result in a wide range of devastating damages. They can cause substantial structural damage by weakening or destroying buildings, homes, bridges, and roads, which in turn poses significant safety risks. This often leads to common property destruction, with furniture, appliances, vehicles, and personal items frequently experiencing irreparable damages. Floodwater can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and other hazardous materials getting mixed in, leading to serious health hazards. Erosion caused by floods can further exacerbate land degradation and infrastructure instability. Due to flooding causing such damage to structures many might find themselves temporarily or permanently displaced and need to find temporary living conditions. Floods disrupt businesses, agriculture, transportation networks, and essential services, resulting in substantial economic losses and recovery difficulties for affected communities. Additionally, floods have a significant environmental impact, harming ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and natural resources, leading to ecological imbalances and long-lasting environmental damage. 

Before a Flash Flood

Before a flood occurs, there are several steps we can take to prepare and minimize potential damages: 

• Stay weather-ready by checking forecasts regularly from reliable sources like Superstorm, Iowa Storm Chasing Network or NOAA. 
• Sign up for weather notifications on your preferred weather apps to receive alerts about severe weather conditions. 
• Develop a comprehensive emergency plan. This plan should include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, a communication strategy, and arrangements for pets or livestock. 
• Build a flood preparedness kit that can be grabbed in a hurry.  
• Stay aware of flood risks in your area, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt. 
• Engage with your community and local authorities in flood preparedness efforts. Participate in flood awareness campaigns, community drills, and support initiatives to improve flood resilience infrastructure. 
• Get a documented baseline of your property. This ensures your insurance carrier has an accurate comparison of your property’s condition before the storm, clarifying the impact from the flood. 
• Take proactive measures to safeguard your property from flooding.
  • Reinforce loose objects outside of your home. 
  • Install check-valves in plumbing to prevent floodwaters from backing up into the drains of your home. 
  • Ensure your sump pump is working properly. 
  • Make sure your electric circuit breakers or fuses are clearly marked for each area of your home to prevent electrical hazards. 
  • Elevate electrical appliances and utilities such as furnaces, water heaters, and electrical panels to minimize damage from flooding. 
  • Seal basement walls and floors with waterproofing compounds to prevent seepage. 
  • Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris to allow proper drainage away from your home. 
  • Use landscaping techniques such as grading and installing rain gardens or permeable surfaces to help absorb excess water and reduce runoff. 
  • Consider flood insurance to cover potential damages. 

During a flash flood: 

• Continue to stay informed by listening to reputable sources, staying updated on weather changes, and watching for alerts. 
• Grab your rain boots and get to higher ground. 
• Obey your area’s evacuation orders. 
• If authorities instruct you to evacuate the area, do so immediately. If time allows, secure your home by checking to make sure everything is in order such as disconnecting utilities and appliances to prevent damage and remember to lock your door before leaving. 
• Avoid entering basements or rooms with water-covered electrical outlets or submerged cords. If you notice sparks or hear unusual noises like buzzing or crackling, evacuate immediately. Stay away from water that may be electrified. 
• Do not walk through floodwaters as just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. If trapped by moving water, seek the highest point and call 911 if possible. Never drive into flooded roads or around barricades; “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” Floodwater can conceal hazards like sharp objects, washed-out surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, and vehicles can be swept away even in 12 inches of water for small cars or 18 inches for larger vehicles. 

After a flash flood: 

Once floodwaters have subsided the aftermath can be quite severe and devastating but remember you still might not be in the clear. Various hidden hazards could still be present. Despite not being immediately visible, contaminants such as sewage and chemicals commonly infiltrate floodwaters and could still be contaminating the area, presenting significant health risks. It’s crucial to verify the safety of the area before resuming normal activities. 

Some additional things to remember after a flood are: 

• Keep yourself informed by following local reputable news sources for updates on road conditions, gas leaks, live power lines down, and water safety. 
• Authorities might place your area under a boil order which means you will have to boil all your water until it is no longer contaminated. 
• Check with your utility company to see if they offer an app to track service restoration. 
• If using a generator, follow safety guidelines. Avoid using portable generators indoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. 
• Refrain from visiting disaster areas to avoid hindering rescue operations and potentially putting yourself in danger. 
• Contact family and friends to let them know you’re safe. 
• Wear protective clothing while checking your property for damages. 
• Call emergency services right away if you spot any hazards like fallen wires, trees, or other life-threatening damages. 
• Help injured individuals if trained and/or capable. 
• Have the company that conducted the initial baseline evaluation return to perform an after-storm assessment of your property. This comparison will help determine the extent of damages caused specifically by the storm.
• Be cautious of insurance scammers by verifying the legitimacy of any individual or company offering insurance services or assistance with claims. Check their credentials, reviews, and reputation with relevant authorities or organizations. 

By implementing these strategies, individuals and communities can enhance their readiness for floods and reduce the impact of these natural disasters on lives and property.

As we conclude Severe Weather Awareness Week here in Iowa for 2024, it’s crucial to remember that preparedness is key to staying safe during and after severe weather events. By staying informed, having a plan, and taking proactive measures, you can minimize risks and protect yourself and your loved ones.