Emergency Management & Severe Weather Preparedness

Preparing for Severe Weather

Although tornadoes occur in many parts of the world, they most commonly occur in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains during the spring and summer months. Nearly 800 tornadoes are reported each year. These result in nearly 100 deaths and 1600 injuries. Wind speeds can exceed 250 miles per hour and can do extensive damage to homes and businesses. Individuals should prepare now for the upcoming severe weather season by following the severe weather tips listed below.

Metro Atlanta experienced tremendous damage from tornadoes in the spring of 1998. Many residents were prepared, saving countless lives.

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Severe Weather Preparedness Information *

Severe Weather Warning sites in Fayette County *

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Current Hazardous Weather Information

Severe Weather Safety Tips

Prior to the Storm

• Develop a plan for you and your family for at home, work and school.
• Have frequent drills on the plan.
• Know the community you live in, and identify shelters in your area.
• Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning tone and battery back-up for weather warnings.

A disaster kit at a minimum should include the following:

• A three day supply of water and food that will not spoil.
• One change of clothes with footwear per person.
• A blanket per person.
• A first aid kit.
• Portable radio and batteries.
• Cash and credit cards.
• Special items, which may be necessary in an emergency

Weather Watches and Warnings

• A severe weather watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather.
• A severe weather warning means that severe weather is imminent.
• If a warning has been issued, take cover in a basement or the center of your home or office.
• Stay away from windows.
• Have a Disaster Kit on hand.

When Do Sirens Sound

After careful review, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services has made some modifications to our policy regarding the sounding of weather warning sirens. Sirens will sound under the following conditions,

1. Sirens will sound during a Tornado WARNING issued for
   Fayette County by the National Weather Service.
2. Sirens will sound during a Severe Thunderstorm WARNING
   issued for Fayette County by the National Weather Service
   with winds of greater than 80 MPH or hails greater than 2.5
   inches in diameter. (Sirens will no longer during
   thunderstorm WARNINGS while under a tornado
   WATCH unless the warning meets the above criteria)  
3. Sirens will sound when a confirmed visual sighting of a
   tornado is made by a creditable source.  
4. In recreational areas a verbal warning message only from
   the 911Center will be made for Significant Weather Alerts
   and severe thunderstorm WARNINGS. No tone will be
   associated with the verbal message.   

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Preparing a Disaster Supplies Kit

As we are scurrying around getting the state ready for Hurricane Ivan, be sure that you've got your own disasters supplies on hand, just in case . . .

Disaster Supplies Kit *( 55 KB PDF)

 

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Need Information About the Bird Flu and Possible Flu Pandemic?

Click the Following Link:

http://www.pandemicflu.gov/

State of Georgia Pandemic Influenza Planning Kit
for Key Service Businesses * (174 KB PDF)

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Fayette County is recognized by the National Weather Service as a StormReady county. The StormReady Program has been developed to assist jurisdictions with the specifics of hazardous weather response. Specific information on the StormReady Program and Fayette County's participation is available for review.

 

For more information on disaster preparedness please visit

:

www.ready.gov