A guide to surviving the ever-changing seasons of Oklahoma
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2012 Weathering the Storm
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Section offers tips to help you weather the storms of Oklahoma Oklahoma generally recognizes five seasons rather than the standard four. This fifth season is tornado season. Although tornadoes can occur at just about any time of the year, tornado season generally begins in early March with the peak perio during May into early June, according to information from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In this section you’ll find tips on keeping
your family safe in a tornado or other natural disaster. There also is information on how to build an emergecy supply kit and a first-aid kit. There even is first aid for your cell phone should it get wet. Tornadoes can happen any day or night of the year. Indeed, the earliest on modern record (since 1950) was two minutes into the new year — 12:02 a.m. CST, Jan. 1, 2011, in Atta-
la County, Miss. The average first tornado date in the United States is Jan.11, for the entire 19502011 time frame. The latest first tornado was on Feb. 15, 2003, in Marengo County, Ala., meaning that the nation had 45 days of tornado-free weather to start that year. Tornadoes aren’t the only violent weather to hit Oklahoma. In addition to dis-
cussing tornado safety, the sections discusses the dangers of flash flooding. Also, while wildfires cannot be predicted, they can be prevented. Inside this section you’ll find tips on preventing wildfires and on how to keep your family safe. The section rounds out with winter safety tips. It’s hoped this section will help you and your family weather the storms of Oklahoma.
Photos Norman: Jerry Laizure. Kyle Phillips, Melissa Elder Stillwater: Anita Pere, Chase Rheam, Ricky O’Bannon Muskogee: Cathy Spaulding, Wendy Burton Enid: Billy Hefton McAlester News-Capital Chickasha: Debbi DeSilva Pryor Times Tahlequah: Josh Newton Stilwell Democrat Journal
Section Design Debra A. Parker, Norman
Advertising teams
Billy Hefton / Enid News & Eagle files
A tornado moves across a field on May 19, 2010, just north of Hennessey.
Oklahoma City the one place hit most often by tornadoes According to information from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administertaion, the city hit the most by tornadoes is Oklahoma City. The exact count varies because city limits and tornado reporting practices have changed over the years; but the known total is close to 150 since 1893. The Norman NWS has prepared a detailed listing of Oklahoma City-area tornadoes. That list begins with a tornado March 22, 1893. The F2 tornado touched down about 9 p.m. There were no deaths reported, but four people were injured, one seriously.
On the Net • http://www.srh.noaa.gov/oun/?n=tornadodata-okc-table
According to accounts of the day, the tornado moved northeastward, passing a few blocks west of the center of Oklahoma City, swinging side-toside and attended by a “sullen grinding noise.” It destroyed 14 buildings. It cut a path 50 yards wide and 1 mile long. The most recent tornado, No. 147, was at 5:06 p.m. May 24, 2011. The twister formed on the south side of Chick-
asha, quickly doing EF-2 damage. As the tornado moved northeast of Chickasha, it gained significant strength, with several areas receiving EF-4 damage. The tornado crossed over the Canadian River into Cleveland County and ultimately dissipated in southwestern Oklahoma City. All told, the tornado had traveled a along path of 33 miles long and had lasted for 55 minutes. The maximum path width was 0.5 miles. — Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
The Ada News The (Chickasha) ExpressStar The Claremore Daily Progress The Duncan Banner The Edmond Sun The Enid News & Eagle The McAlester NewsCapital The Muskogee Phoenix The Norman Transcript The Pauls Valley Democrat The (Pryor) Times The (Stillwater) NewsPress The Stilwell Democrat Journal The Tahlequah Daily Press The Waurika News Democrat The Westville Reporter The Woodward News
On the Cover Rain falls from a storm that moved through the Enid area Monday afternoon, Feb. 20, 2012. Photo by Billy Hefton / Enid News & Eagle
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What’s the difference between a funnel cloud and a tornado? In a tornado, a damaging circulation is on the ground — whether or not the cloud is. The phrase, “tornado on the ground,” is redundant. A tornado, by definition, is “on the ground.” A true funnel cloud rotates, but has no ground contact or debris, and is not doing damage. If it is a low-hanging cloud with no rotation, it is not a funnel cloud. Caution: tornadoes can happen without a funnel; and what looks like “only” a funnel cloud may be doing damage which can’t be seen from a distance. Some funnels are high-based and may never reach the surface. Still, since a funnel cloud might quickly become a tornado (remember rotation), the weather service recommends it be reported by spotters. Ricky O'Bannon / Stillwater NewsPress
Debris from a destroyed house litters the ground south of Stillwater after a May 23, 2011, tornado
— Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
Know the signs of a tornado Have an evacuation plan ready Weather forecasting science is not perfect and some tornadoes do occur without a tornado warning. There is no substitute for staying alert to the sky. Besides an obviously visible tornado, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration offers these things to look and listen for: and persistent rotation in the cloud base. 1 Strong dust or debris on 2base —Whirling the ground under a cloud tornadoes sometimes
ground level near a thunderstorm (as opposed to silvery lightning up in the clouds). These mean power lines are being snapped by very strong wind, maybe a tornado.
have no funnel! Hail or heavy rain followed by either dead calm or a fast, intense wind shift. Many tornadoes are wrapped in heavy precipitation and can't be seen.
3
or night — Loud, continuous roar or rumble, 4which Day doesn't fade in a few seconds like thunder.
5
Night - Small, bright, bluegreen to white flashes at
- Persistent lowering 6minatedNight from the cloud base, illuor silhouetted by lightning — especially if it is on the ground or there is a blue-greenwhite power flash underneath. rnadoes do occur without a tornado warning. There is no substitute for staying alert to the sky. — Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
Debbi DeSilva / Chickasha ExpressStar
May 2011, Chickasha.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency says emergency evacuations are more common than many people realize. Fires and floods cause evacuations most frequently across the U.S. and almost every year, people along coastlines evacuate as hurricanes approach. In addition, hundreds of times a year, transportation and industrial accidents release harmful substances, forcing many people to leave their homes. In some circumstances, local officials decide that the hazards are serious and require mandatory evacuations. In others, evacuations are advised or households decide to evacuate to avoid situations they believe are potentially dangerous. When community evacuations become necessary, local officials provide information to the public through the media. In some circumstances, other warning methods, such as sirens, text alerts, emails or telephone calls are used. The amount of time you have to leave will depend on the hazard. If the event is a
Immediate safety in a tornado • Tips on steps to take to ensure your safety and that of your family, Page 8
weather condition, such as a hurricane, you might have a day or two to get ready. If it is a tornado, then you have minutes to get to safety. However, many disasters allow no time for people to gather even the most basic necessities, which is why planning ahead is essential. FEMA suggests: • Plan how you will assemble your family and supplies and anticipate where you will go for different situations. • Choose several destinations in different directions so you have options in an emergency and know the evacuation routes to get to those destinations. — Source: FEMA; www.ready.gov/evacuatingyourself-and-your-family
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2012 Weathering the Storm
Immediate steps to take to ensure your family’s safety In a house with a basement Avoid windows. Get in the basement and under some kind of sturdy protection (heavy table or work bench), or cover yourself with a mattress or sleeping bag. Know where very heavy objects rest on the floor above (pianos, refrigerators, waterbeds, etc.) and do not go under them. They may fall down through a weakened floor and crush you.
In a house with no basement, a dorm, or an apartment Avoid windows. Go to the lowest floor, small center room (like a bathroom or closet), under a stairwell, or in an interior hallway with no windows. Crouch as low as possible to the floor, facing down, and cover your head with your hands. A bathtub may offer a shell of partial protection. Even in an interior room, you should cover yourself with some sort of thick padding (mattress, blankets, etc.), to
protect against falling debris in case the roof and ceiling fail.
In an office building, hospital, nursing home or skyscraper Go directly to an enclosed, windowless area in the center of the building -- away from glass and on the lowest floor possible. Then, crouch down and cover your head. Interior stairwells are usually good places to take shelter, and if not crowded, allow you to get to a lower level quickly. Stay off the elevators; you could be trapped in them if the power is lost.
In a mobile home Get out! Even if your home is tied down, you are probably safer outside, even if the only alternative is to seek shelter out in the open. Most tornadoes can destroy even tieddown mobile homes; and it is best not to play the low odds that yours will make it. If your community has a tornado shelter,
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go there fast. If there is a sturdy permanent building within easy running distance, seek shelter there. Otherwise, lie flat on low ground away from your home, protecting your head. If possible, use open ground away from trees and cars, which can be blown onto you.
At school Follow the drill! Go to the interior hall or room in an orderly way as you are told. Crouch low, head down, and protect the back of your head with your arms. Stay away from windows and large open rooms like gyms and auditoriums.
In a car or truck Vehicles are extremely dangerous in a tornado. If the tornado is visible, far away, and the traffic is light, you may be able to drive out of its path by moving at right angles to the tornado. Otherwise, park the car as quickly and safely as possible -out of the traffic lanes. [It is safer to get
the car out of mud later if necessary than to cause a crash.] Get out and seek shelter in a sturdy building. If in the open country, run to low ground away from any cars (which may roll over on you). Lie flat and face-down, protecting the back of your head with your arms. Avoid seeking shelter under bridges, which can create deadly traffic hazards while offering little protection against flying debris.
In the open outdoors If possible, seek shelter in a sturdy building. If not, lie flat and face-down on low ground, protecting the back of your head with your arms. Get as far away from trees and cars as you can; they may be blown onto you in a tornado.
In a shopping mall or large store Do not panic. Watch for others. Move • Conintued on Page 9
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2012 Weathering the Storm
Tips for after the tornado
• From Page 8 as quickly as possible to an interior bathroom, storage room or other small enclosed area, away from windows.
• Keep your family together and wait for emergency personnel to arrive. • Carefully render aid to those who are injured. • Stay away from power lines and puddles with wires in them; they may still be carrying electricity. • Watch your step to avoid broken glass, nails and other sharp objects. • Stay out of any heavily damaged houses or buildings; they could collapse at any time. • Do not use matches or lighters, in case of leaking natural gas pipes or fuel tanks nearby. • Remain calm and alert, and listen for information and instructions from emergency crews or local officials.
In a church or theater Do not panic. If possible, move quickly but orderly to an interior bathroom or hallway, away from windows. Crouch facedown and protect your head with your arms. If there is no time to do that, get under the seats or pews, protecting your head with your arms or hands. — Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
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— Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
Kyle Phillips / The Norman Transcript
The marina at Lake Thunderbird was destroyed May 10, 2010. Many boats docked at the marina were thrown onto the shore or piled atop each other. More than 400 boats were damaged or destroyed.
1 - " / 1 3 & 1" 3 & # & "8" 3 &  P L A N. Create an emergency plan for different types of situations. Discuss the plans with your family. Have emergency contact phone numbers available. Know the disaster plans at your work, children’s daycare or school, etc.  1 3 & 1 " 3 &. Be sure to have a disaster supply kit. Three-day supply of water, nonperishable food, first aid kit, prescription medications, change of clothes, etc.  # & " 8" 3 & Have a NOAA weather radio transmitter, know what the community warning system sounds like, know where shelters are, etc.  $ 0 % & 3 & %. You are encouraged to sign up to receive messages on your home phone and/or cell phones. Messages may include life-saving notifications and important after-event information. Visit the City’s website at stillwater.org and sign up today.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
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May 3, 1999 Southwest Oklahoma City & Moore more than 36 dead 583 injured
Jerry Laizure / The Norman Transcript
A killer tornado roars into south Oklahoma City on Monday, May 3, 1999.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
Moore tornado still tops Oklahoma record books 6:26 p.m. May 3, 1999 This violent, long-lived tornado was the most infamous of nearly 60 tornadoes that struck central Oklahoma during an unprecedented outbreak on this Monday afternoon and evening. It formed about 6:26 p.m. about 2 miles south southwest of Amber, and grew rapidly to monstrous proportions as it headed northeast, paralleling Interstate 44. It moved across Bridge Creek and rural parts of northwest Newcastle, causing continuous F4 and sporadic F5 damage. The tornado was estimated to be a mile in diameter in this area. It weakened to F2-F3 intensity and narrowed to less than a quarter-mile in width as it crossed I-44 and the South Canadian River northeast of Newcastle and entered far south Oklahoma City, southwest of 149th Street and May Avenue about 7:12 p.m. But it regained F4-F5 intensity and
widened again to half- to occasionally three-quarters of a mile as it moved northeast across south Oklahoma City, entering Moore just west and north of 12th and Santa Fe streets. Still moving northeast and still producing F4 and occasional F5 damage, it crossed Interstate 35 at the Shields Blvd. junction and moved into northeast Moore, at which point it weakened slightly to F3-sporadic F4 intensity and began a gradual turn to the left. This turn took the tornado more to the north, northeast as it crossed Interstate 240 between Bryant Ave. and Sunnylane Road. It crossed southeast Oklahoma City and entered Del City as an F4 tornado, width of a third- to a half-mile, along SE 44th Street between Sunnylane and Sooner roads, and continued north, northeast to Tinker Air force Base, near SE 29th Street and Sooner Road. • Continued on Page 13
Jerry Laizure / The Norman Transcript
Despite having his neighborhood flattened by an F5 tornado, a Moore resident was able to keep his sense of humor. An estimated 1,800 homes were destroyed.
2012 Weathering the Storm
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• From Page 12 Continuing to turn slowly, it moved almost due north but maintained F4 intensity as it crossed Interstate 40 just east of Sooner Road and continued north to between SE 15th Street and Reno Avenue. The tornado then weakened rapidly to F0/F1 intensity as it crossed Reno Ave., and at 7:48 p.m. dissipated about three blocks north of Reno between Sooner Road and Air Depot Blvd. Totals from this tornado include 36 direct fatalities (12 in Bridge Creek, 1 in Newcastle, 9 in S/SE Oklahoma City, 5 in Moore, 6 in Del City, and 3 in Midwest City), 5 indirect fatalities during or shortly after the tornado, 583 direct injuries, numerous indirect injuries (too many to count), 1,800 homes destroyed, and 2,500 homes damaged. It left a 38-mile-long path of destruction. — Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Jerry Laizure / The Norman Transcript
American flags fly over the rubble of a Moore neighborhood two days after it was leveled by a killer tornado that blew through central Oklahoma killing over 40 people. Additional photo, Page 15.
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One day later May 4, 1999 Moore, Okla.
Jerry Laizure / The Norman Transcript
$1 billion in damage
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• The record for any entire month of March is 180 tornadoes set in 1976.
A destroyed travel trailer sits among trees stripped of their limbs and leaves Tuesday, May 25, 2011, at Canadian Recreation Area on Canton Lake after a tornado made a direct hit on the campground.
Storm Prediction Center report for March 2, 2012:
Billy Hefton / Enid News & Eagle
March tornadoes • The 10-year average U.S. tornado count for the entire month of March is 87 tornadoes
•
94 tornado reports
•
208 wind reports
•
410 hail reports
Is it true that a town’s geography can protect it from tornadoes? No. Many towns which have not suffered a tornado strike contain well-meaning people who perpetuate these myths and legends; but there is no basis for them besides the happenstance lack of a tornado. Many other towns used to have such myths before they were hit, including extreme examples such as Topeka, Kan., (1968, F5 damage, 16 killed) and Waco, Texas, (1953, F5 damage, 114 killed).
Violent tornadoes have crossed rivers of all shapes and sizes. The deadliest tornado in U.S. history (tri-state tornado of March 18, 1925, F5 damage, 695 killed) roared undeterred across the Mississippi River, as have numerous other violent tornadoes. Almost every major river east of the Rockies has been crossed by a significant tornado, as have high elevations in the Appalachians,
Rockies and Sierra Nevada. The Salt Lake City tornado of Aug. 11, 1999, crossed a canyon — descending one side and rising up the other about halfway along its path. In 1987, a violent tornado (rated F4) crossed the Continental Divide in Yellowstone National Park. — Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
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Tornado tips for motorists Each year, many Oklahoma motorists are unexpectedly caught in tornadic storms. AAA says there are important do’s and don’ts to be aware of should you be driving when a tornado warning is issued. “tornado warning” means a twister is develor is actually on the ground. It is more 1severeAoping than a “tornado watch,” which means conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms, which may or may not spawn twisters.
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If a tornado warning is issued for your area, leave your vehicle immediately and seek shel-
Never try to outrun a tornado. Your car or pick3impossible up will offer no protection from a twister. It is to know which direction a tornado may decide to go. Seek shelter indoors. A basement is safest. Closets or small interior rooms are best. Get under a sturdy piece of furniture and stay away from south and west walls and all windows.
4 Jerry Laizure / The Norman Transcript
An F5 tornado wrapped this truck around a tree May 3, 1999, as it swept across Moore.
5
If you are caught in the open, with no indoor buildings available to you, find a ditch, ravine
or low-lying area and lie flat. Stay away from roadway overpasses. not seek shelter in a mobile home. These 6tion fromDostructures, even if tied down, offer little protectornadoes and should be abandoned. wet roads mean poor traction. Con7minutesRemember, ditions are most dangerous during the first 10 of a heavy downpour as oil and debris wash away. Driving on wet roads in the rain is just like driving on ice. Slow down. Take it easy. Allow extra time to reach your destination.
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Never use your motor vehicle’s cruise control feature in rainy weather.
— Source: AAA Oklahoma
20 2012 Weathering the Storm
Constructing basic disaster supply kits Emergency kit
Additional safety supplies
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: • Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation • Food, at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both • Flashlight and extra batteries • First aid kit • Whistle to signal for help • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities • Manual can opener for food • Local maps • Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
Once you have gathered the supplies for a basic emergency kit, you may want to consider adding the following items: • Prescription medications and glasses • Infant formula and diapers • Pet food and extra water for your pet • Cash or traveler's checks and change • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. You can use the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit developed by Operation Hope, FEMA and Citizen Corps to help you organize your information. • Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or free information from this website. • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate. • Complete change of clothing, including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider
— Source: www.ready.gov/basic-disaster-supplies-kit
additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate. • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted, nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color-safe or bleaches with added cleaners. • Fire extinguisher • Matches in a waterproof container • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils • Paper and pencil • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children — Source: www.ready.gov/basic-disaster-supplies-kit
More emergency kit tips, Page 21
2012 Weathering the Storm
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Tips on constructing basic first aid supply kits First Aid Kit In any emergency a family member or you yourself may suffer an injury. If you have these basic first aid supplies you are better prepared to help your loved ones when they are hurt. Knowing how to treat minor injuries can make a difference in an emergency. You may consider taking a first aid class, but simply having the following things can help you stop bleeding, prevent infection and assist in decontamination. • Two pairs of Latex or other sterile gloves if you are allergic to Latex • Sterile dressings to stop bleeding • Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes • Antibiotic ointment • Burn ointment • Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes • Eye wash solution to flush the eyes or as general decontaminant • Thermometer • Prescription medications you take every day such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers. You should periodically rotate medicines to account for expiration dates. • Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies Nonprescription drugs: • Aspirin or nonaspirin pain reliever • Anti-diarrhea medication • Antacid • Laxative Other first aid supplies: • Scissors • Tweezers • Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant — Source: www.ready.gov/basic-disaster-supplies-kit
Supplies for unique needs: Infants Remember the unique needs of your family members, including growing children, when making your emergency supply kit and family emergency plan. For Baby: • Formula • Diapers • Bottles • Powdered milk • Medications • Moist towelettes • Diaper rash ointment For more information about the care and feeding of infants and young children during an emergency, visit the California Dept. of Public Health website. For Adult: • Denture needs • Contact lenses and supplies • Extra eye glasses Ask your doctor about storing prescription medications such as heart and high blood pressure medication, insulin and other prescription drugs. If you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat. Think about your clothing and bedding supplies. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including: • Jacket or coat • Long pants • Long-sleeved shirt — Source: www.ready.gov/basic-disaster-supplies-kit
Billy Hefton / Enid News & Eagle
A mattress is impaled on a tree Tuesday, May 25, 2011, at Canadian Recreation Area on Canton Lake after a tornado made a direct hit on the campground.
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Anita Pere / Stillwater NewsPress
Splintered trees, damaged vehicles and debris litter the ground May 23, 2011, after a tornado struck Stillwater.
2012 Weathering the Storm
How to save your cell phone A working cell phone can help save your life. A wet cell phone is useless. According to a news release from Geek Squad Tech Support, a division of Best Buy, there are steps will save that cell phone. Here are the items Geek Squad recommends for a cell phone rescue kit: A large airtight container A large bag of uncooked white rice (one to two pounds) A silica packet rescued from some source such as a pill bottle or bag of jerky
1 2
3
Here are the seven steps to save a wet cell phone using the silica packet: Turn off the phone and remove the battery
1
Dry the phone (inside and out) with a clean cloth
2
Secure the items for your rescue kit
3
4
Take the silica packet from the
bottle or bag Place the phone and the silica packet in airtight container
5
Seal the container and leave overnight
6
Put the battery in the phone and turn it on
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Here are the seven steps to save a wet cell phone using the rice: Turn off the phone and remove the battery
1
Dry the phone (inside and out) with a clean cloth
2
Secure the items for your rescue kit
3
4
Take the container and
pour the uncooked rice inside
5 6
Bury the phone in rice
Seal the container and leave overnight AP Photo Put the battery A resident uses her cell phone in the phone Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012, while and turn it on walking through a storm-dam-
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aged neighborhood just east of downtown Branson, Mo.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
What was the deadliest tornado year in the modern era? The Storm Prediction Center defines the modern era of tornado recordkeeping as 1950-present, the time frame of its database. Currently, the record year since 1950 is 2011, when tornadoes killed 550 people — 142 in Joplin, Mo. alone — in 15 states. Before 1950, several years had nearly similar or higher tornado death tolls; but the exact numbers are uncertain because of more archaic communications, more people missing and unaccounted for, unknown numbers of unreported deaths, and then-customary exclusion of certain groups from death tolls in some older events. The year 1925 had the greatest toll with 794 known tornado deaths.
An optimistic Joplin resident embellished the sign in front of Joplin High School with duct tape. The sign expressed a very loud message: We are on the mend; there is hope for our future. The town took a direct hit from a tornado May 22, 2011.
— Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
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Damaging wind, driving rain and hail always punctuate spring and summer in Oklahoma. Flash flooding is common. Here, several OG&E power poles on Norman’s east side were snapped when a severe storm blew through northeast Norman in August 2010.
Jerry Laizure / The Norman Transcript
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2012 Weathering the Storm
What's the difference between a flood and a flash flood?
A man walks down flooded Lahoma Avenue on a June 2011 evening after a storm hit Norman. Flash flooding left many areas of the city under water.
A flood occurs when prolonged rainfall over several days, intense rainfall over a short period of time, or an ice or debris jam causes a river or stream to overflow and flood the surrounding area. Melting snow can combine with rain in the winter and early spring; severe thunderstorms can bring heavy rain in the spring and summer; or tropical cyclones can bring intense rainfall to the coastal and inland states in the summer and fall. A flash flood occurs within six hours of a rain event, or after a dam or levee failure, or after a sudden release of water held by an ice or debris jam, and flash floods can catch people unprepared. You will not always have a warning that these deadly, sudden floods are coming. So, if you live in areas prone to flash floods, plan now to protect your family and property. The use of the word “flash” here is synonymous with “urgent.”
Kyle Phillips / The Norman Transcript
— Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
How do flash floods occur? Several factors contribute to flash flooding. The two key elements are rainfall intensity and duration. Intensity is the rate of rainfall, and duration is how long the rain lasts. Topography, soil conditions, and ground cover also play an important role. Flash floods occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or a sudden release of water held by an ice jam. Flash floods can roll boulders, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges, and scour out new channels. Rapidly rising water can reach heights of 30 feet or more. Furthermore, flash floodproducing rains also can trigger catastrophic mud slides. You will not always have a warning that these deadly, sudden floods are coming. Most flood deaths are due to flash. Most flash flooding is caused by slowmoving thunderstorms, thunderstorms repeatedly moving over the same area, or heavy rains from hurricanes and tropical storms.
29
By the numbers: Flash floods
Melissa Elder / For The Transcript
Signs across Oklahoma warn drivers to the flash-flood danger. According to NOAA, most flood deaths occur during flash flooding. Occasionally, floating debris or ice can accumulate at a natural or man-made obstruction and restrict the flow of water. Water held back by the ice jam or debris dam can cause flooding upstream. Subsequent flash flooding can occur downstream if the obstruction should suddenly release. — Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce.
Melissa Elder / For The Transcript
June 9, 1972
June 14, 1990
Aug. 1, 1985
Black Hills
Shadyside, Ohio
Cheyenne, Wyo.
Rapid City, S.D.
6 inches of rain in three hours
15 inches of rain in five hours
4 inches of rain in less than two hours produced a 30-foot high wall of water
238 fatalities
26 dead
$166 million in damages
$6million to $8million in damages
12 dead damages $61million
— Source: National Weather Service
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2012 Weathering the Storm
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Arcadia Lake campgrounds were closed following storms in late June 2010.
Drew Harmon / The Edmond Sun
Stilwell Democrat-Journal
A car sits stranded in water in April 2011 near Stillwell.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
If caught in a wildfire • Don’t try to outrun the blaze. Instead, look for a body of water such as a pond or river to crouch in. • If there is no water nearby, find a depressed, cleared area with little vegetation, lie low to the ground, and cover your body with wet clothing, a blanket, or soil. Stay low and covered until the fire passes. • Protect your lungs by breathing air closest to the ground, through a moist cloth, if possible, to avoid inhaling smoke. — Source: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/ environment/natural-disasters/wildfire-safety-tips/ McALester News-Capital Photo
A 2011 grass fire burns near McAlester. Units from the Alderson Fire Department responded to the blaze.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
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McALester NewsCapital Photo
Wildfires unpredictable Unlike many natural disasters, most wildfires are caused by people—and can be prevented by people, too. Meteorologists are not yet able to forecast wildfire outbreaks, so people in fire-prone areas should plan ahead and prepare to evacuate with little notice. Here are some tips on how to prevent wildfires and what to do if you’re caught in the middle of one.
How to Prevent a Wildfire
store fuel away from appliances.
Do not discard cigarettes, matches, and Contact 911, your local fire department, or 1or out-of-control the park service if you notice an unattended 4 smoking materials from moving vehicles, or anywhere on park grounds. Be certain to completely fire. Never leave a campfire unattended. Completely extinguish the fire—by dousing it with water and stirring the ashes until cold—before sleeping or leaving the campsite.
2
When camping, take care when using and fueling lanterns, stoves, and heaters. Make sure lighting and heating devices are cool before refueling. Avoid spilling flammable liquids and
3
extinguish cigarettes before disposing of them. local ordinances when burning yard waste. Avoid backyard burning in windy con5ditions,Follow and keep a shovel, water, and fire retardant nearby to keep fires in check. Remove all flammables from yard when burning. — Source: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/natural-disasters/wildfiresafety-tips/
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2012 Weathering the Storm
Kkyle Phillips / The Norman Transcript
A Goldsby family loses buildings near their home in 2011 as wildfires spread across Cleveland County .
Before You Leave, Prepare Your House
Evacuation Tips
• Remove combustibles, including firewood, yard waste, barbecue grills, and fuel cans, from your yard.
• If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Close all windows, vents, and doors to prevent a draft.
• Know your evacuation route ahead of time and prepare an evacuation checklist and emergency supplies.
• Shut off natural gas, propane, or fuel oil supplies.
• Wear protective clothing and footwear to protect yourself from flying sparks and ashes.
• Fill any large vessels—pools, hot tubs, garbage cans, or tubs—with water to slow or discourage fire.
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36
2012 Weathering the Storm
The Pryor Times
A dock collapses under the weight of snow near Pryor.
2012 Weathering the Storm
37
Clearing snow and ice Clearing snow and ice from driveways and sidewalks is hard work. To prevent injuries, follow these safety tips from the National Safety Council, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and other prevention organizations. warmly, paying special attention to guidelines with the machine feet, hands, nose, and ears. 1 Dress Read the owner's manual before starting Avoid shoveling snow if you are out of 8 your snow blower. Make sure you under2ble, doshape. If you have a history of heart trou- stand all the recommended safety steps. not shovel snow unless your doctor says Make sure all people and pets are out of it's okay. 9 the way before you begin snow blowing. Do light warm-up exercises before shovDo not put your hand in the snow blow3 eling and take frequent breaks. 10 er to remove impacted snow or debris. If possible, push snow in front of you. If Turn the machine off and wait a few seconds. Then to lift it, pick up small amounts use a stick or broom handle to remove the mate4and liftyouwithhave your legs, not your back. Do not toss rial. snow over your shoulder or to the side. Don't drink alcohol before or while shoveling snow. Never smoke while shoveling.
5 Use rock salt or de-icing compounds to remove ice from steps, walkways, and 6sidewalks. Sand placed on walkways may also help prevent slipping.
7
If you use a snow blower (also called a snow thrower), follow the printed safety
not leave the snow blower unattendit is running. 11 Doed when up with fuel before you start, when 12 Fillthe engine is cool.
— Source: www.kidsource.com/safety/winter.safety.cold.html The McAlester News-Capital File Photo
In 2009, residents prepare for snow and ice expected in the McAlester area.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
Keep your home safe, warm Follow these safety tips from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Fire Protection Association, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to prevent injuries and deaths related to heating your home. • Install a smoke alarm near bedrooms and on each floor of your home. Test it monthly. If it has a 9-volt battery, change the battery once a year. • Install a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm near bedrooms and on each floor of your home. If your alarm sounds, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that you press the reset button, call emergency services (911 or your local fire department), and immediately move to fresh air (either outdoors or near an open door or window). Know the symptoms of CO poisoning: headache, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, get fresh air right away and contact a doctor for proper diagnosis. • Make sure heating equipment is installed properly. Have a trained specialist inspect and tune up your heating system each year. • Keep portable space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn, including bedding, furniture, and clothing. Never drape clothing over a space heater to dry. •
Keep children and pets away
from space heaters. Never leave children in a room alone when a space heater is in use. • If you use a kerosene heater, use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Never put gasoline in a kerosene heater--it could explode. Before you refuel the heater, turn it off and let it cool down. Refuel outside only. • When using a kerosene heater, keep a door open to the rest of the house or open a window slightly. This will reduce the chance of carbon monoxide build-up in the room. • Have your fireplace chimney and flue inspected each year and cleaned if needed. Open the flue and use a sturdy fireplace screen when you have a fire. Burn only untreated wood; never burn paper or pine branches--pieces can float out the chimney and ignite your roof, a neighbor's roof, or nearby trees. • If you use a wood-burning stove, have the chimney connection and flue checked each year. Make sure the stove is placed on an approved stove board to protect the floor from heat and coals. • Never use your range or oven to heat your home, even for a short time. — Source: www.kidsource.com/safety/ winter.safety.cold.html
Chase Rheam / The Stillwater NewsPress
Ehren Epperson, left, and Zach Musgrave walk along Husband Street around Ninth Street in Stillwater during a 2011snow storm.
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2012 Weathering the Storm
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During the blizzards of February 2011, an SUV teeters on a bridge abutment at 36th Avenue NW in Norman . No injuries were reported. The vehicle later toppled into the creek below.
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