This week is severe weather awareness week in Iowa. Larry Smith, Emergency Management Coordinator for Washington and Keokuk counties, states that he helps prepare agencies for severe weather and recommends that residents prepare at home by having an emergency kit. The kit should include water, food, any prescription medications and cash, should the power go out since banking machines would not be operable.
Also, he says that signing up for WENS, Wireless Emergency Notification System, may be helpful. The program sends weather and emergency alerts by phone call, texts or e-mails. However, Smith says there is a delay with the program and tuning into your local radio station can give you up to the minute information.
To sign up for WENS contact the Washington County Communications Center or click here. For up to the minute severe weather coverage tune in right here at KCII.