[Press Release] : Severe weather threatens Boone County; residents advised to review plans

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: James P. Mc Nabb - (573) 874-7400

Severe weather threatens Boone County; residents advised to review
plans

COLUMBIA, MO (May 13, 2009) - With the threat of widespread severe
thunderstorms through mid-Missouri this afternoon and tonight, the
Columbia/Boone County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) reminds
residents now is the time to review their disaster plans for severe
weather. Schools, hospitals, businesses and families are advised to
evaluate plans, and stay updated on the latest weather information
through the day. 

“The thunderstorms we are receiving this morning are just the first
wave of storms expected to enter the area,” said OEM Director James
McNabb. “The National Weather Service tells us that the anticipated
storms this afternoon and tonight have the potential for large hail,
damaging winds and possible tornadoes. The highest potential for
tornadoes is central and eastern Missouri, including Columbia and Boone
County. We cannot stress enough that everyone needs to stay informed of
the latest weather information, and have a plan in place in the event of
severe weather. Last week’s severe weather in southern Missouri serves
as a prime example of how dangerous these storms can be.”

While the Office of Emergency Management would activate the county’s
outdoor warning sirens in the event of a tornado, McNabb reminds
residents that the outdoor warning sirens are designed primarily to warn
people who are outside. If you are indoors, the best way to be alerted
to severe weather is by having a weather radio, or to be tuned to local
media when severe thunderstorms are a possibility.

During severe weather, OEM implements a Storm Spotter Activation
System, in which trained spotters will be sent to areas where storms are
having an impact. The work of those trained spotters can give critical
advance warning when storms threaten Columbia and Boone County.
Residents are encouraged to tune into local media broadcasts for details
on storm movement and damage reports. They are also asked to refrain
from calling 911 during a storm, unless an emergency is actually
occurring. Power outages should be reported to local utilities.

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