Prepare for Severe Weather Now

As the winter melts into spring, the potential for severe weather threats like strong thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding increases. State emergency officials even proclaimed February 21 to 26 as Severe Weather Awareness Week.

The following tips can help Wiregrass Electric Cooperative members weather the stormy season:

Severe Thunderstorms

• Charge all phones and other communications devices before inclement weather occurs.
• Stay indoors if thunder roars, and stay away from windows and doors!
• Unplug appliances and electronics.

Tornadoes

• Identify your home’s safe places before a storm system approaches. Basements, storm shelters, or windowless interior rooms on the lowest floor serve as the best protection during a tornado.
• When warned of a pending storm, execute evacuation or safety plans. Use your arms to shield your head and neck and use furniture or blankets to provide additional cover.

Flooding

• Store important documents in waterproof containers and create password-protected digital copies.
• Always follow official directives to shut off utilities. Switch off all breakers before flipping off the main breaker in a residence.
• Evacuate the area if authorities advise doing so, but do not drive around barricades or on flooded roadways.

In all cases, create an emergency kit with nonperishable food items, water, and other important items. A full list of kit recommendations can be found at the Ready.gov website.