Severe Weather Awareness Week kicks off today with an actual possibility of severe weather. A strong storm system will move into the area tonight, and scattered storms could develop by early to mid evening, according to National Weather Service Meteorologist Andy Foster. But he said, "the better chance for storms, including severe thunderstorms and the possibility of tornadoes, will develop late this evening into the overnight hours across the Missouri Ozarks."
According to Foster, there are steps you can take to prepare for the possibility of severe weather. For one, make sure you have a way to receive warnings, including while you sleep, such as a NOAA weather radio or emergency alerts on your phone. He suggests practicing what you would do in the event of a tornado.
"Know in advance where you would go in the event a warning's issued--the best place you would go in your home, business or school," Foster said.
If a tornado warning is issued, you should go to the most central portion of the building you’re in, in the lowest spot possible, according to Foster. If there’s not a basement, seek shelter in a small closet.
The National Weather Service advises having an emergency supply kit ready that contains things like bottled water, flashlights, a radio with extra batteries, prescription drugs and first aid supplies.
