North Texas Under Tornado Watch as NWS Issues Alert
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Fort Worth, Texas, has issued a tornado watch for North Texas that will remain in effect until 6 p.m. Monday evening.
This precautionary alert encompasses multiple counties including Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Delta, Denton, Ellis, Erath, Fannin, Grayson, Hood, Hopkins, Hunt, Jack, Johnson, Kaufman, Lamar, Montague, Palo Pinto, Parker, Rains, Rockwall, Somervell, Tarrant, Van Zandt, and Wise.
Safety Measures During Tornado Watch: To ensure safety during the tornado watch, the NWS advises residents to stay vigilant and prepared. Regular updates can be received through local news sources or a NOAA Weather Radio. Specific precautions include:
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Indoors: If a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter immediately in a basement, safe room, or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. Remember to bring pets along if time permits.
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Workplaces or Schools: Adhere to tornado drill protocols and proceed to designated tornado shelter areas. Avoid windows and large open spaces such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
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Outdoors: Seek immediate shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid sheds, storage units, and other inadequate structures.
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In Vehicles: Do not attempt to outdrive a tornado in a vehicle. If no substantial shelter is nearby, park the car safely and cover your head, or if possible, exit the vehicle and take cover in a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine.
Essential Tornado Emergency Kit: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends preparing a basic disaster supplies kit that includes:
- Water: One gallon per person for at least three days
- Food: A minimum of a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Communication: Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
- Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates
- Lighting: Flashlight and extra batteries
- First Aid: Comprehensive first-aid kit
- Additional Supplies: Whistle, dust mask, plastic sheeting and duct tape for shelter, moist towelettes, garbage bags with plastic ties, and a manual can opener for food
- Navigation: Local maps to navigate evacuated areas
The tornado watch serves as a critical reminder for the residents of North Texas to review their safety plans and ensure they have an emergency kit ready for such severe weather scenarios.