×

Prepare for severe weather

Spring officially began this week, but spring-like severe weather already has returned to Ohio, bringing floods, tornadoes and even rock slides.

Feb. 24, Gov. John Kasich declared an emergency in 17 counties due to flooding and Feb. 25, EF1 tornadoes were confirmed in Felicity and Hamersville. Feb. 26, rain triggered a rock slide in Chesapeake, closing SR 7 in both directions.

Kasich has proclaimed this week as Severe Weather Awareness Week, and none too soon. Ohioans are urged to learn what to do to protect themselves from spring and summer weather hazards and home emergencies.

As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, a statewide tornado drill and test of the state’s Emergency Alert System is set for 9:50 a.m. Wednesday. This would be a good time for schools, businesses and households to practice tornado drills and emergency plans.

During tornado drills — and especially during tornado warnings — remember to DUCK:

D – Go down to the lowest level, stay away from windows.

U – Get under something (such as a basement staircase or heavy table or desk).

C – Cover your head.

K – Keep in shelter until the storm has passed.

Meanwhile, replenish supplies in emergency kits and visit www.weathersafety.ohio.gov to view Ohio weather and to review severe weather safety and preparedness information.

Also, owners of cellphones and mobile devices can set them to receive notification of severe weather and other emergencies. Wireless Emergency Alerts are emergency texts sent by authorized government alerting authorities.

WEAs can notify users of extreme weather warnings, local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action, AMBER Alerts and presidential alerts. Check your device settings to see whether they are enabled.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.15/week.

Subscribe Today