National Weather Service / Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security
NEWS RELEASE
SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK
Media contacts:
National Weather Service, Mr. Paul Flatt, (208) 334-9861
Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security, Lt. Col. Tim Marsano, (208) 422-5268
Topic for Friday, Oct. 8, 2004
Winter wind storms
Are you ready for the next wind storm? Wind storms produce downed trees and power lines, power outages, and blowing debris. Falling trees and blowing debris cause most fatalities.
In 2002, two people were killed in Bend, Oregon when damaging winds blew a large tree onto their mobile home. In January 2004, a man was killed by a falling tree during high winds near Leavenworth, Washington. Last November, falling trees damaged dozens of homes in the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene areas.
When the strong winds are combined with snow or dry loose soils, blizzards or dust storms create near zero visibility. On icy pavement, strong wind gusts can literally blow vehicles off the road. When the winds are combined with cold temperatures, life-threatening wind chill can produce frostbite within minutes. When traveling, be prepared and stay updated with weather watches and warnings, and let someone know of your plans.
Be sure to have your three-day preparedness kit ready at home, school or at work. The kit should include water and non-perishable food for each person, an AM / FM weather radio and flashlights with extra batteries, vital medications, sleeping bag and blankets and clothing.
In addition, inspect your home and grounds each year such as for nearby trees and your roof and windows. Ensure trees are healthy and trimmed, and your home, school and business are structurally sound. If high winds are forecast for your area, it is a good idea to bring lightweight items indoors or tie them down so they do not become dangerous missiles. These precautions will help ensure you are ready for the next big blow.
This week is Winter Weather Awareness Week. Now is the time to get prepared for winter weather. Public information statements will be issued throughout the week to give safety information, and help you know how to respond when winter weather threatens.
You may learn more from our internet preparedness web pages at
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/winter/index.shtml
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/severeweather/index.shtml
This message is brought to you by your local National Weather Service staff and the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security.
###