Advisory: Planning Ahead – Be ready for the projected weather

Posted on Monday, April 15, 2013

Everyone at this point is looking for spring weather to be more realistic rather than a continued pattern of snow and cold.

The potential of flooding is increasing in the Lake County area.

Things that you should be planning and preparing for are flooding and severe weather.

NOAA All Hazard Weathers Radios can be your first line of defense. If you currently have one, make sure you have a fresh battery installed.

Make a plan for your family and business. What will you do if a flood your severe weather affects you and your family. Anticipate a disruption in your daily activities from power outages or blocked roads.

Prepare your home.

• Keep sacks that you have in the basement should be move to an area that will be safe from flooded basements.
• Major appliances, such as washer and dryers, should be elevated.
• Sump pumps checked for proper operations and drained to the outside of the house.
• Check valves installed in floor drains.
• Floor drains cleared of debris and obstructions.
• Outside drain spouts – pointed away from the foundation.

Do you need sand Bags? Sandbags can be purchased at Ace Hardware or picked up at the County Highway (1000 SW 4th Street) or at the City Public Works (401 S Highland Ave). These bags are NOT prefilled. Sand is available for you to fill the bags.

Know where a storm shelter is located. Madison has two storm shelters. They are located at City Hall at 116 W Center Street and the Basement of the Public Safety Building at 219 NE 1st Street. These two locations are the only shelters available 24/7 in the county.

Safety Tips:

• Do not walk through flowing water.
• Do not drive through water deeper than a few inches.
• Stay away from downed power lines.
• Be alert for washed out roads.
• Take shelter immediately when a tornado warning is issued.
• Move in doors when it is lightening.
• Be alert to the changing weather conditions.

Check out www.bReadySD.com or http://www.crh.noaa.gov/fsd/?n=preparedness (www.weather.gov/fsd under preparedness) for additional information. Contact Information: Donald Thomson Lake County SD 605-256-7611 lakeema@lakecountysd.com

Information Provided By: Lake Co SD Emergency Management