Release Date:
March 21, 2022
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued a moderate risk for portions of central/east-central Texas this afternoon through tonight.
The risks include the threat for strong tornadoes above EF-2, large hail more than 2 inches in diameter and winds in excess of 75mph.
There is also a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms today through Tuesday for parts of the lower Mississippi Valley and central Gulf Coast region. A regional severe weather outbreak is possible, including the potential for significant or damaging tornadoes.
Now is the time to prepare for severe weather
- Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
- If you are in the forecast areas, monitor a NOAA Weather Radio and your local news or official social media accounts for updated emergency information. Follow the instructions of state, local and tribal officials.
- Download the free FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and information so that you and your loved ones know what to do before, during and after disasters. The app provides real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips and disaster resources.
- Visit Ready.gov to learn more about how to protect yourself and your family in a tornado.
Prepare for a tornado and plan where you will go if a tornado watch is issued in your community
- Storm cellars, safe rooms or basements provide the best protection.
- If underground shelter or a safe room is not available, put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Go to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and stay away from windows and doors.
- Most injuries associated with high winds are from flying debris, so remember to protect your head.
- Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible. Motor vehicles, trailers and mobile homes are not good locations to ride out a tornado.
- If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.