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A large swath of the central Plains is under a Level-3 risk of severe weather today amid already very active spring weather activity, threatening the possibility of spawning tornadoes in the infamous area known as tornado alley.
A severe weather threat is looming in the central United States today. Meteorologists are giving conditions a Level-3 threat, which is an enhanced risk of severe weather. Level-3 is defined as a widespread weather outbreak with numerous severe storms possible, bringing hazards of likely wind damage, 1-2 inch hail, and several tornadoes.
The areas under threat today includes a large swath through the center of Texas encompassing over a third of the state, most of Oklahoma, extending northward into central and eastern Kansas and into southeastern Nebraska, eastward to include Western and Northern Missouri, southern Iowa and Western Illinois.
Thunderstorms are also forecast in surrounding areas which could expand the severe weather threat. Residents in the central US are urged to keep comprised of weather conditions in their area throughout the day as conditions on the ground could change rapidly.
Tornado Alley is an area of the central United States that spans from Texas to the Dakotas known to be one of the most frequent with tornadic activity. The term was given to the area following a 1952 research project to study weather in the area and the moniker stuck.
The original heart of Tornado Alley encompasses 6 states including Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Eastern Colorado, and South Dakota. However, Tornado Alley has expanded its borders somewhat and also frequently encompasses portions of Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Iowa, Tennessee, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.
The most important thing anyone living in areas that can be affected by severe weather, such as tornado alley, is to begin getting prepared now.
When it comes to tornadoes, it’s important to develop a family emergency plan that includes an evacuation plan and a designated safe space. Preferably, a basement or underground shelter, or the next best thing is an interior room with no windows. This is often a bathroom.
If everyone could possibly be separated when severe weather strikes, you should also have a family communications strategy. Make sure that every member of your family has a cell phone. For every member of your family who does not have a cell phone, look for the best cellular phone deal by doing an online search for cell phone plan deals near me.
It’s also vital to have a weather radio that is battery-powered or can be charged by a hand crank in case the power goes out.
The next crucial thing to have on hand is a 3-day supply of fresh water and food.
It’s also a good idea to have a flashlight, a spare battery backup charger for your cell phone, and extra batteries for your weather radio and flashlight.
In addition, prepare an emergency kit that contains the aforementioned items, as well as, vital medications, a first aid kit. Be sure to include food and water for your pets if you have any.
To get additional information about how to be prepared for severe weather, visit these US government websites for articles on preparedness at Ready.gov or Weather.gov.
