ABERDEEN, S.D. (Press Release)

For Immediate Release: Monday, April  1, 2024

Severe Weather Preparedness Week

April 8-12, 2024 is Severe Weather Preparedness Week in South Dakota and Minnesota. This week serves as an opportunity to increase awareness and response to summer severe weather hazards. The National Weather Service encourages people to think about personal safety plans during this week.

“Dangerous, even deadly, thunderstorms can occur at any time during the summer months,” said Kelly Serr, Warning Coordination Meteorologist for the Aberdeen National Weather Service. “It’s important to prepare now and consider what actions you would take in any situation, whether at school, work, engaged in outdoor recreation, or traveling.”

Along with personal safety, businesses should evaluate and practice their severe weather plans. The Federal Emergency Management Agency estimates that 62% of businesses do not have an emergency plan in place. Now is the time to develop and practice plans for the safety of your employees.

Each day during Severe Weather Preparedness Week has a specific theme to encourage people to focus their preparation and planning efforts. The links below provide additional safety information along with premade graphics that are free to use:

Monday: Weather Alerts and Warnings
Tuesday:  Severe Storms Wind, Hail & Lightning

Wednesday: Tornado Safety 

Thursday: Flash Floods

Friday: Extreme Heat & Wildfire
Additional safety information on all topics

*The National Weather Service will be encouraging residents to practice their tornado drills anytime during this week but will not be activating the Emergency Alert System with a test.* 

**Individual communities may sound sirens or plan other drills locally. Please contact your local emergency management office for more details.**