Weather can be unpredictable! When severe weather hits unexpectedly, the risk of injury and weather-related death increases, so planning makes sense. Prepare for storms, floods, tornadoes, and all other modes of severe weather as if you know in advance they are coming.
Be Ready, Missouri!
Preparing for Stormy and Changing Weather
Missouri weather can be unpredictable—and it can change quickly. Weather conditions can change often, sometimes many times in a single day! From spring thunderstorms and tornadoes to summer heat and flooding, and from fall storms to winter ice and snow, severe weather can happen in any season.
As Mark Twain famously once said:
“In the spring I have counted one hundred and thirty-six kinds of weather inside of four and twenty hours.”
Whether the forecast calls for sunshine, storms, extreme heat, or winter weather, taking a little time to prepare ahead can make a big difference when severe weather strikes.
Make a Plan
Talk with your family about what you will do during different types of severe weather. Know where you will go, how you will communicate, and how you will stay informed.
Consider preparing an emergency evacuation or shelter plan. Your plan should include a map of your home and, for each type of severe weather emergency, routes to safety from every room.
Keep a list of important personal information in an easy-to-access location, including:
Telephone numbers for neighbors, family, and friends
Insurance and property information
Telephone numbers for utility companies
Important medical information
Keep Emergency Supplies on Hand
Having basic supplies prepared before severe weather arrives can save valuable time and reduce stress.Basic supplies may include:
Weather and Emergency Equipment
A battery-operated flashlight
A battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio
Extra batteries for both
First Aid Kit
According to the American Red Cross, a first aid kit may include:
Non-latex gloves
An assortment of adhesive bandages
Antibiotic ointment
Sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes
Absorbent compress dressings
Tweezers
Scissors
Adhesive cloth tape
Aspirin packets (81 mg each)
A first aid instruction booklet
Remember: Customize your first aid kit to meet the individual needs of you and your family.
Food and Water:
Keep a 3- to 5-day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food available in case severe weather causes power outages, road closures, or prevents you from leaving your home.
Also consider keeping:
Personal hygiene items
Blankets or sleeping bags
An emergency kit in your car
Stay Informed
Weather can change rapidly, so don't rely on a forecast you checked hours ago. Monitor changing conditions and pay attention to watches, warnings, and other emergency alerts.
A NOAA Weather Radio can be especially helpful when power or internet service is interrupted. Keep your emergency supplies where they are easy to find and make sure everyone in your household knows where they are located.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
You cannot control the weather, but you can control how prepared you are for it. Take time before severe weather arrives to make a plan, gather supplies, and talk with your family about what to do.
Plan ahead. Stay informed. Look out for one another.
Because in Missouri, the only constant is change!