Be Prepared for Severe Weather

Posted on March 20, 2018
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI

Be prepared for severe weather by creating a safety plan and prepare a household disaster kit.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security encourages residents to practice severe weather emergency plans which include identifying an evacuation route in your home and in neighborhoods. During a tornado, the safest place is the basement or storm cellar. If those options are not available, go to an interior room on the lowest level with no windows. Seek shelter from flying debris by getting under a desk, table or sturdy object.

A household disaster kit should include food and water for three days, a battery-operated all-hazards radio, flashlight, extra batteries, first-aid kit, extra clothing, rain gear, blankets, personal hygiene items, a list of important phone numbers, important documents, cash, and special items including prescriptions and baby and pet supplies.

During this National Severe Weather Preparedness Week, a family drill is recommended so everyone is familiar with the evacuation plan. Children should be aware of how to call 9-1-1 and what information to provide emergency personnel.

For more information, visit www.getprepared.in.gov.

State Wide Test of Emergency Alert System to be Held Tuesday Morning

Posted on March 19, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI

As a part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week, which runs from March 18th through the 24th, Indiana broadcast stations will participate in a statewide tornado drill on Tuesday, March 20th.

The National Weather Service test of the statewide Emergency Alert System will be issued for 15 minutes at 9:15 a.m. CT/10:15 a.m. ET tomorrow morning.

The tornado test drill is being conducted to ensure that the statewide Indiana Emergency Alert System network is operating properly and that it will be ready to respond in the event of a tornado warning.

Indiana Broadcasters Association Executive Director Dave Arland commented that all Hoosiers know how erratic Indiana weather can be so officials just want to make sure their systems are firing on all cylinders in case Mother Nature shows us her worst.

According to Arland, the IBA has been participating in this drill for more than three decades and broadcasters remain committed to doing all they can to keep Hoosiers safe at times when they are often most vulnerable.

In the event of severe or inclement weather, the test will be rescheduled and held on Wednesday, March 21st.

3/22/2016 Statewide Tornado Drill Set for Today

March 22, 2016AuthorMichael Gallenberger, WKVI 

Indiana residents are encouraged to take a few minutes today to make sure they know what to do in case a tornado strikes. Officials are planning statewide tornado drills this morning and again this evening.

At 10:15 a.m. and 7:35 p.m. EDT, the National Weather Service will test its tornado warning procedures, which will activate Emergency Alert System tests on radio and television stations, as well as tornado sirens in many communities across the state.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security says there are a few steps you can practice to make sure you’re ready for a tornado. If you’re at work or school, check to see if there is a severe weather plan and know where the designated safety area is. Otherwise, move to an interior area on the lowest level of the building, away from windows.

If you’re at home, go to the basement or lowest level, and move away from exterior windows and doors. Those who live in mobile homes or similar buildings should plan ahead to find a safe and sturdy structure to go to, in the event of a tornado. The IDHS says mobile homes are not safe shelters during a tornado, since they often can’t withstand the wind speed and pressure.

It’s also important to be able to receive notice of severe weather. One of the best ways to do that is to have an all-hazards weather radio in your home near your sleeping area. Also, consider making sure you’re able to receive emergency notifications on your cell phone.

Today’s statewide tornado drill is part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

Tornado Drill Day During Severe Weather Preparedness Week In Indiana

Governor Mike Pence has proclaimed March 15th through 21st, 2015 as Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Indiana.

The National Weather Service, in conjunction with the Indiana State Police, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, the Indiana Department of Education, the Indiana Broadcasters Association, the American Red Cross, and Amateur Radio Operators will conduct two (2) statewide tests of communication systems during the Indiana Statewide Tornado Drill.

TORNADO DRILL DAY

Thursday, March 19th, 2015
Times: 10:15 AM and 7:35 PM

Important - while the drill will be sent using live TOR EAS coding (Tornado Warning), it is only a test, and will be postponed to Friday, March 20th if weather conditions warrant.

Officials Warn of High Water Levels

Published: March 14, 2015

By: Anita Goodan, WKVI

Severe Weather Preparedness Week officially begins tomorrow, and officials are already warning of possible flooding issues this weekend.

With rainfall in parts of the state, yesterday, rivers, creeks, streams and low-lying areas could experience flooding. The addition of snow melt will increase changes of flooding.

No watches or warnings have been enacted in our area at this time.

As spring and the potential for unstable weather nears, Indiana Department of Homeland Security urges you to be ready in case severe weather occurs. Be cautious around high water. Flooding conditions can develop very quickly, especially in areas with poor drainage.

Never attempt to cross a flooded road, even if it seems shallow. Flood waters can damage roadways, washing away the entire road surface and a significant amount of ground. Just two feet of water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pick-up trucks.