STUDENTS AND ADULTS PRACTICE TORNADO DRILLS WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9
Media event being held at East Garner Elementary School
WHAT: Tornado drill at East Garner Elementary School in Garner. Nick Petro, warning coordinator meteorologist with the National Weather Service Raleigh office, will discuss safety during tornado watches and warnings.
WHEN: Wednesday, March 9, at 9:30 a.m.
WHERE: East Garner Elementary School, 5545 Jones Sausage Rd. Garner, NC 27529
NOTE: Media are asked to be at the school by 9:15 a.m. The tornado drill will be held at 9:30 a.m. Media should park in the bus drop-off loop in the front-side parking lot, off of Jones Sausage Road.
Tornado Stats and Helpful Hints
• Gov. Pat McCrory declared March 6-12 as Severe Weather Awareness Week
• Number of tornado warnings issued last year in N.C. = 25
• Number of tornadoes last year in N.C. = 9
• Deadliest months for tornadoes in N.C. = March, April and November
• Number of flash flood warnings issued last year in N.C. = 98
• Number of flash flood incidents in N.C. = 133
• Number of severe thunderstorm warnings issued last year in N.C. = 528
• Number of severe thunderstorms last year in N.C. = 542
• Combined costs of damage from tornadoes, flash floods and severe storms in 2015 = $12.5 million
When Tornadoes Form
During heavy thunderstorms when warm, moist air collides with cold air. These storms can also produce large hail and strong winds. Residents should be equally prepared when other forms of severe weather threaten, such as lightning, floods or hail.
What to Do
1. Listen to local radio, television or a NOAA radio when severe weather is likely.
2. If a WARNING is issued, a tornado has been spotted in your area. Take shelter now!
Where to Go
People at home – go to the basement if available. Or, go to the lowest floor of the house and to an interior room such as a hallway, pantry or closet away from windows.
Schoolchildren – go to inner hallways that are away from windows. Stay out of gymnasiums, auditoriums or cafeterias where there is a large roof span.