[Press Release] : More severe weather possible; preparation is key

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Scott Smith, Public Information or Zim Schwartze, Interim OEM
Director
- (573) 874-7400

More severe weather possible; preparation is key

COLUMBIA, MO (May 15, 2009) - With another round of potentially severe
weather predicted by the National Weather Service (NWS), the
Columbia/Boone County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) again reminds
residents to take time to review their plans of action.

“The best time to prepare for a severe weather event is before the
threat becomes reality,” says Interim OEM Director Zim Schwartze.
“We were lucky earlier this week, as severe storms and tornadoes
bypassed Columbia and Boone County, but we may not always be that
fortunate. It’s important to have a plan of action in place, so you
know where to go as a storm approaches, and what to do after it has
passed.”

Schwartze advises residents to stay informed of the latest weather
information throughout the day and evening, by periodically tuning in to
local media, and having a NOAA weather radio in your home or office. 


The NWS has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for several northern
Missouri counties until 3 p.m. Boone County may not be part of that
watch area, but that does not eliminate the county from the potential of
severe weather. The main weather threat for the area this afternoon and
tonight appears to be large hail and damaging winds. Another danger
comes in the form of heavy rain, which could fall on already saturated
ground and create the possibility of flash flooding. More weather
advisories could be issued, as the day progresses. 

The Columbia/Boone County Office of Emergency Management has a number
of publications available, addressing a variety of storm-related topics,
including what to do before and after a disaster. Those pamphlets are
offered free of charge at the OEM office on Seventh Street in Columbia,
and can also be accessed online at www.gocolumbiamo.com/EM.

Be Prepared For Severe Weather
Know the Meanings of Watches and Warnings

Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Watch: Means conditions are favorable
for the development of severe thunderstorms and/or tornadoes in and
around the watch area. Keep an eye on the sky and remain alter to
changing weather conditions.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A severe thunderstorm, producing hail one
inch or larger and/or 58 mph or higher, has been indicated by radar or
reported by a trained weather spotter or law enforcement official. Take
immediate action to protect life and property!

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been indicated by radar or reported by a
trained weather spotter or law enforcement official. Take cover
immediately! 

If you are in a building, go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a
safe room, basement, storm cellar or the lowest building level. If there
is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level
(closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors and outside
walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get
under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do
not open windows. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little
protection from tornadoes.

If you are in a vehicle, get out immediately and go to the lowest floor
of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Lie flat in a nearby
ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Do not get
under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location. 

- 30 -
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Archived press releases can be viewed online at: 
http://www.gocolumbiamo.com/Public_Comm/Public_Information/Press_Releases/

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