CullmanTimes.com - Cullman, Alabama

Top News

Related Photos

  • Cullman County EMA director Phyllis Little is seen during a meeting on storm shelter grant money in June 2011. file

    Awareness

Discussion

February 22, 2012

Families urged to plan for severe weather season

By Ashley Graves The Cullman Times

CULLMAN — It’s been almost a year since the unprecedented severe weather outbreak tore through the state on April 27.

And for many who lived through the horrific event, it still feels like something scripted for a Hollywood movie.

With the spring severe weather season around the corner, Cullman County EMA director Phyllis Little is encouraging families to take time this week, designated for severe weather awareness, and review storm safety plans.

“The one thing we stress to families is to have a plan, not only for home, but also one for if there is damage and you can’t get home from work, etc.,” Little said. “That’s something that we had to deal with last April. Families need to sit down and think about that and plan together, even with the smallest children. It’s much easier when you know what to do.”

In addition to having a safety plan in place, Little also encourages families to have a weather radio for when the possibility of bad weather arises.

“Unfortunately, people want to still depend on outdoor warnings,” she said. “But a weather radio is one of the best defenses anyone can have. It’s still going to be there if the power goes out. It’s the best $30-$35 spent.”

Though the National Weather Service is stressing spring severe weather season this week, Little reminded residents that winter is not over just yet.

“This winter has been kind of mild compared to last year, and people tend to forget that we can have below normal temperatures through April,” Little said. “So you just have to be alert with what’s going on.”

A special ceremony will be held Wednesday to commemorate the recertification of 11 North Alabama counties, including Cullman, as StormReady. For Cullman, and many of the others, this will be the third renewal since the addition of the National Weather Service Huntsville forecast office in 2003.

Aside from Severe Weather Awareness Week, the Cullman County EMA is holding a severe weather spotting class March 20 at 6 p.m. at Cullman City Hall for those interested in weather. The event is free and open to all ages.

“The class will show what to look for when severe weather is out there and will also go through safety tips,” Little said. “It’s a very good class for everyone.”



* Ashley Graves can be reached by phone at 734-2131, ext. 225 or by email at agraves@cullmantimes.com

Text Only
Top News