OXFORD — Mississippi’s in the middle of a deadly tornado zone, and Gov. Phil Bryant has declared this week Severe Weather Preparedness Week statewide. The zone stretches roughly from Little Rock, Ark., to Birmingham, Ala.
Gov. Phil Bryant has declared Feb. 4-8 Severe Weather Preparedness Week statewide.
“Some simple actions and a little planning can save your life,” he said.
National Weather Service meteorologist Steve Wilkinson told The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, “Mississippi is at or near the top of nearly all tornado statistics including total tornadoes, strong to violent tornadoes and long track tornadoes.
“Tornado statistics from the last 60 years also show that the frequency of tornadoes increases rapidly from the middle of February all the way through April,” he continued. “We are quickly approaching the peak season, so we encourage residents to remain aware of weather forecasts so they can be prepared and stay safe.”
According to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, every Mississippi resident should have one or more methods to receive severe weather warnings, such as a weather radio, a phone-based warning system or a mobile device app.
“Having a disaster plan in place in every home will save lives,” said MEMA Director Robert Latham.
The National Weather Service will hold a statewide tornado drill using the Emergency Alert System at 9:15 a.m. Wednesday. Schools, government agencies and businesses throughout the state are encouraged to participate.
MEMA Recommended Emergency Kit
■ flashlights
■ AM/FM radio
■ NOAA weather radio
■ batteries
■ drinking water
■ nonperishable food for at least three days
■ first aid kit
■ prescription medications
■ bedding
■ clothing
■ utensils
■ rainwear
■ sunscreen
■ sunglasses
■ mosquito repellant
■ sanitary supplies
■ toiletries
■ bleach
■ copies of important documents
■ cash
■ generator
■ bicycle helmet
Online
■ msema.org
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