The National Weather Service, in cooperation with the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, designated Feb. 24 through March 2 as Severe Weather Awareness Week.
This is a safety campaign designed to help Arkansans prepare for the spring storm season, according to a news release.
“The severe storm season of 2018 brought with it 34 tornadoes, 16 thunderstorm wind gusts of 80 mph and greater, 15 instances of hail of 2 inches or larger and hundreds of reports of flash flooding. Combined, hazardous weather resulted in 5 fatalities in 2018, two of which were caused by lightning associated with non-severe storms,” according to the release. “The time to prepare is now.”
For Arkansas’ 2019 Severe Weather Awareness Week, the following safety topics will be highlighted:
Sunday: Arkansas’ Severe Weather Awareness Week will be introduced.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Monday: Flooding — The danger of flash flooding and river flooding will be highlighted.
Tuesday: Lightning — Officials will talk about the importance of seeking a safe shelter with any approaching storm, with a special emphasis on delaying outdoor sports/activities until the threat of lightning has passed.
Wednesday: Tornadoes — Highlight safety tips to help identify safe shelters and develop a family emergency action plan before storms and tornadoes arrive.
Thursday: Severe Thunderstorms — Officials will talk about the dangers of large hail and damaging winds.
Friday: Watches and Warnings — Officials will talk about what it means to be under a severe thunderstorm or tornado watch or warning, and what actions are recommended when watches and warnings are issued.
Saturday: Social Media Communication — Officials will focus on how they use social media during severe weather events to talk about impending hazardous weather and how they can collect reports from the community.