The National Weather Service (NWS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Iowa Department of Homeland Security are reminding Iowa residents to be ready for the possibility of rough weather this spring by observing Severe Weather Awareness Week through the 28th.

Each day of the week has a different severe weather focus. Wednesday is preparedness. NWS and NOAA remind residents that before a severe weather event you should be weather-ready by monitoring forecast information, including watches and warnings, through a trusted news source like a local radio station or weather radio. Have a plan that includes a designated shelter and practice that plan and to be aware of warning systems including outdoor sirens, media and smartphone alerts.

During a severe weather event, continue to monitor radio and local media for updates. If severe weather strikes while you’re at home, seek shelter in the basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building with an emergency kit, and stay away from windows. If the event occurs while at work or school follow safety procedures in place and go to the designated storm shelter. If caught outdoors, find a sturdy shelter if possible, do not stay in your vehicle, if no shelter is available seek cover in a ditch or low-lying area. Keokuk County Emergency Management Coordinator Richard Fortney talked with KCII News about the importance of a plan, practicing that plan, and what should be in your emergency kit, “It’s important to have multiple streams of information. If the power were to go out, what do you have left to you? You have to plan to make sure you have a way to stay informed when there is severe weather. A safety plan should include any emergency contact information, flashlight, a battery, radio, NOAA weather radio, a few hours worth of activities to keep kids busy, shelf-stable food supplies, ready.iowa.gov has suggestions on items to put in to create a kit for yourself.”

The KCII Severe Weather Action Team provides live coverage 24 hours per day anytime Washington County goes under a Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Warning. Even if the power goes out, coverage continues with our emergency backup generators. The one to count on for up-to-the-minute severe weather coverage is KCII. Severe Weather Awareness Week continues Thursday with a look at hail and wind hazards.