Sioux Falls, SD (KELO-AM) Area first responders, weather spotters and the public have a chance to get set for severe weather season. The National Weather Service, along with area Emergency Management Agencies will hold severe weather awareness training. The free event will be Monday night, April 18th at 7 at the Washington Pavilion.
NWS Sioux Falls Warning Cooridation Meteorologist Todd Heitkamp will present the annual training, designed to give people a better chance of recognizing dangerous weather, reporting procedures, warning signals and protective measures. You'll also learn the different terms that come along with severe weather season, such as "watch" and "warning"...and what actions to take. "Don't rely on outdoor sirens if you're indoors....you may not be able to hear them" says Sioux Falls City Emergency Manager Regan Smith. He syas the outdoor sirens are meant to warn those outside. He says the best way to get watch and warning information is through the NOAA Weather Radio network and local media.
Minnehaha County Emergency Manager, Lynn DeYoung says it's never too early in the season to brush up on your weather ready senses. He adds that youth are invited to the sessions to educate them on recognizing dangerous weather. DeYoung also says it's a great time to get a family plan for all occassions together, in the event of threatening weather.
Severe Weather Awareness Week in South Dakota is April 25-29, with a statewide tornado drill scheduled for Wednesday, April 27th.
Click here for a complete schedule of area severe weather education classes: