Indiana is observing Severe Weather Preparedness Week from March 9 to March 15, and officials are emphasizing the importance of staying informed and ready. The Allen County Department of Homeland Security and meteorologists are urging residents to take action before severe weather strikes.
What to Expect in This Week’s Coverage
The First Alert Weather team will deliver daily coverage on severe weather preparedness across multiple newscasts, helping residents understand key safety measures. Some topics include:
- How thunderstorms develop and become severe
- The classification of severe storms
- What to do before and during severe weather warnings
- Allen County’s outdoor siren system improvements
- The impact of floodwaters on people, vehicles, and homes
- Flood safety tips
Readiness Starts with Mindset, Says Emergency Official
Allen County Department of Homeland Security Director Bernie Beier believes preparedness begins with a simple decision.
“The first step in being ready starts between your ears,” Beier explained. “You have to decide that you, your family, and your business will be prepared and know what to do when severe weather strikes.”
He expressed concern that too many people ignore severe weather alerts, failing to take action until it’s too late.
Take Action When Warnings Sound
Beier emphasized that having emergency alerts is only useful if people act on them. Whether it’s a phone notification, weather radio alert, or outdoor siren, immediate response is key.
“You have to want to be ready, understand what happens, and know what to do when an alert goes off,” he said. “If you wait to think about what to do when the alert sounds, it’s already too late.”
Trusted Sources Matter
Relying on accurate, timely information from a credible source can make all the difference in a crisis.
“Over 90% of the time, people trust their favorite meteorologist the most,” Beier noted. “Subscribe to their news and weather feeds so that you get information from someone you rely on.”
Check the Forecast Before Heading Out
While alerts provide warnings, Beier suggests staying ahead of the weather by checking forecasts before leaving home.
“Don’t wait for an alert to go off,” he advised. “Be proactive and check the weather before you step outside.”
He also reminded residents that while meteorologists provide advanced warnings, forecasts aren’t always perfect.
“The public expects meteorologists to be perfect, but that’s not the point. Their job is to give you time to make good decisions,” he said. “Minutes matter in severe weather, and hours are gold.”
As Severe Weather Preparedness Week continues, officials encourage everyone to stay informed, stay ready, and take action when necessary.
