Severe Weather Preparedness Week: Flood Safety Tuesday

Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 4-8, 2024. Salina311 will be presenting a series of articles to inform the public about those involved at the Saline County Department of Emergency Management, as well as tips on how to be prepared for all forms of severe weather.

Severe Weather Awareness Week, running from March 4th to 8th, is underway, with a focus on educating the public about severe weather preparedness. Each year, the National Weather Service designates the first week of March to raise awareness about the threats posed by severe weather conditions. This initiative emphasizes the importance of recognizing severe weather patterns, implementing safety precautions, involving families, and more.

Tuesday, March 5th, is Flood Safety Tuesday. Saline County Emergency Management, responsible for ensuring the county's readiness for both natural and man-made emergencies, underscores the significance of understanding the potential dangers of floodwaters and how to safeguard oneself. With a history marked by several flooding incidents, including the devastating events of the 1950s and a most-recent occurrence in 2021, Salina and Saline County residents are urged to remember that flood waters can become dangerous very quickly.

Safety measures during a flood include seeking higher ground, whether within the home's upper floors or by evacuating if conditions allow. It's essential to ensure that every family member has appropriate footwear, as floodwaters can carry hazardous debris and disease. Additionally, it's crucial to recognize the risks posed by floodwaters even while outdoors; as little as six inches of water can move a vehicle, while a mere foot of rushing water can sweep away a car, and two feet can carry away a truck. The adage "turn around, don't drown" serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers. Furthermore, Saline County Emergency Management emphasizes the importance of respecting barricades and refraining from driving around them, as they are in place for public safety and flouting them is not only illegal but also hazardous.