As winter slowly draws to an end and Kansans eagerly look toward warmer spring weather, they also know that warmer weather may bring on severe storms that include strong winds, tornadoes, heavy rains and flooding. To remind Kansans to be prepared for such weather, Governor Laura Kelly signed a proclamation designating March 4th through the 8th, as Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Kansas. Kelly says early warning and spotter systems, local news outlets, and preparedness programs are critical to ensuring safety during severe weather.
Last year, 44 tornadoes were documented in the state, down from 56 the year before and 89 in 2021. Fortunately, these storms caused no deaths, partly due to Kansans being severe weather prepared
As part of the week’s activities, Kansans are urged to take part in the statewide tornado safety drill Wednesday, March 6, at 11 a.m. To avoid any confusion to the public, a live tornado warning will not be sent out on the NOAA Weather Radio. Instead, there will be a routine weekly test message asking people to practice sheltering. County Emergency Management Offices may also sound alert sirens at that time. Also, Tuesday night March 5th at 7:00, the National Weather Service will hold a storm spotter talk at the Ottawa Memorial Auditorium. If you are interested in becoming a storm spotter, the talk is free and open to the public.
