Experts Say Now is the Time to Prepare for Severe Weather

With storm season around the corner, the National Weather Service says now is the time to get prepared. The NWS and FEMA have designated this week National Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

"When a warning's issued it is not the time to... put together a plan, when the warning is issued, that's when you have to put the plan in action," John Kurtz, a NWS meteorologist said.

Kurtz says its an effort to get people active in their community and within their families to create that plan. The American Red Cross offers tips to prepare.

"Have a kit, have a plan, stay informed," Red Cross spokesman Ken Garcia said. "When we say have a kit, we're talking about having batteries, flashlights, all of your important documentation, medications that your may need if something does happen to your home."

Garcia said you should also have a three day supply of food and water for every person in your household and a weather radio.

"You never know where  a tornado is going to pop up and where its going to hit, and what its going to do," Garcia said.  "I know it seems like overkill to prepare for these sort of things, but if it happens and you don't have it, you're going to be kicking yourself, wishing, 'Wow I wish I had prepared."

To find more Red Cross tips, click here. 

The Red Cross is also looking for volunteers as Oklahoma prepares for severe weather season.  Spring is the busiest time for Red Cross crews, as they assess damage after storms hit.

The NWS will also post links and tips throughout National Severe Weather Preparedness Week.  You can find that website, by clicking here.Experts Say Now is the Time to Prepare for Severe Weather

Posted: Monday, March 4 2013, 02:13 PM CST