Why Severe Weather Awareness Week?
According to the National Weather Service, Minnesota experiences an average of 40 tornadoes per year. In 2012, 37 twisters touched down. A record was set in 2010 with 104 tornadoes across the state. Understanding this threat and knowing what to do when a tornado is approaching can save lives.
Take advantage of Severe Weather Awareness Week to review your own and your family's emergency procedures and prepare for weather-related hazards.
Each day of the week will focus on a different topic:
- Monday - Alerts and Warnings
- Tuesday - Severe Weather, Lightning and Hail
- Wednesday - Floods
- Thursday - Tornadoes (with statewide tornado drills)
- Friday - Extreme Heat
Check each page link above for specific information about these topics, including factsheets, checklists, data and other resources.
Cell Phone Technology for Early Warnings
Wireless Emergency Alerts will sound on all newer model cell phones during an actual tornado warning. Severe Weather Awareness Week is a great opportunity to learn about these new alerts. This fact sheet can assist you in explaining this new technology.
Show us how you prepare!
We hope you take the time to participate in Severe Weather Awareness Week 2013 and educate yourself, your family and other Minnesotans about staying safe all summer long.
If you do participate in a preparedness event or activity, please let us know! Please send us any information about your preparedness activity and any photos to dps.weatherawareness@state.mn.us.
