Submitted
Although some days it may not seem like it, spring is on its way and with it the prospect of severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, and floods.
To remind Kansans to be prepared for such weather, Governor Laura Kelly signed a proclamation on Feb. 28 designating March 3-7, 2025, as Severe Weather/Flood Preparedness Week in Kansas.
“Preparedness is key to staying safe during Kansas’ severe weather events,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I urge all Kansans to ensure they are prepared in case severe weather hits comes their way and to remain vigilant during the coming months.”
Being prepared includes being aware of weather conditions and having a family emergency kit and emergency plan. The Kansas Division of Emergency Management advises everyone to prepare a home emergency kit with supplies to sustain every family member for a minimum of seven days. Kits should include nonperishable foods, a gallon of water per person per day, blankets, flashlights and batteries, a weather radio, extra clothing, necessary medications, and other survival items. Kits should also be prepared for household pets.
As part of the week’s activities, Kansans are urged to take part in the statewide tornado safety drill on Wednesday, March 5, at 10 a.m. The far eastern tier of counties (Doniphan, Atchison, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson, Miami, and Linn) will do their test at 11 a.m.
To avoid any confusion to the public, a live tornado warning will not be sent out on the NOAA Weather Radio. Instead, there will be a Routine Weekly Test message asking people to practice sheltering. County emergency management offices may also sound alert sirens at that time.
Information on emergency preparedness and building a home disaster kit can be found online at www.ready.gov.