During a Tornado or Severe Storm Watch:
During a Tornado Warning:
After the Storm Has Passed:
Remember that the National Weather Service issues a tornado watch when the possibility of tornadoes exists and a tornado warning when a tornado has been spotted, or indicated on radar. Also, there may not be time for a tornado warning before a twister strikes. Tornadoes form suddenly. Teachers and students should know the difference between a watch and warning
Each school should be inspected and tornado shelter areas designated. Schools should use basements when available or interior hallways on the ground floor that are not parallel to the tornado’s path, which are usually from the southwest. Never use gymnasiums, cafeterias, auditoriums, or other rooms with wide, free span roofs. Avoid all windows and other glassed areas. The most dangerous locations of a building are usually along the south and west sides at all corners. Teachers and students should know their designated shelter areas.
During a tornado watch specific teachers or other staff members should be designated to monitor commercial radio or TV for Tornado Warning
Tornado Danger Signs:
Weather spotters should keep an eye on the sky for dark, rolling clouds, hail driving rain, or a sudden increase in the wind in addition to the telltale funnel or roaring noise. Tornadoes are often obscured by precipitation or darkness
When students are assembled in designated sheltered areas, and when the danger is imminent, they should be instructed to respond to a specific command, such as “drop and tuck”. They should assume a proactive posture facing an interior wall with their hands interlocked over their heads. Most tornado deaths are caused by head injuries.
*Tornado Safety Rules in Schools, US Dept of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric. 1995
Deaths due to flooding are the most common weather related fatalities, so flood warnings must be taken seriously. Even six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet, and a depth of two feet is enough to displace the weight of most automobiles, causing them to float away. Never try to walk, swim, or drive through swift-moving water. If you come upon a flood, stop, turn around and go another way.
Geographically, many cities in Connecticut are subject to various forms of flooding. Coastal flooding is caused by water piling up along the shore due to a severe storm such as a hurricane, or a nor'easter. Particular danger occurs when the time of high tide coincides with the brunt of the storm. Southern towns are susceptible to coastal flooding.
Flash floods within a few minutes of hours of excessive rainfall. Most flash floods are caused by slow moving thunderstorms, thunderstorms repeatedly moving over the same area of heavy rains from hurricanes, or tropical storms. In the winter, floating ice can accumulate in restricted area and subsequent flash flooding can occur when the ice jam is suddenly released.
Urban and small stream flooding occurs in areas that have lost their ability to absorb rainfall. This includes paved areas and ground that is saturated or frozen. Small streams, street, and low-lying areas such as railroad underpasses can become swift-moving rivers. Basements that flood can become death traps as they fill with water.
River flooding is a natural, seasonal occurrence where melting winter snows combine with spring rains to push rivers beyond their banks. River flooding also occurs in conjunction with torrential rains of severe storms (hurricanes, tropical storms, etc.)
These are the flooding watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service:
Flash Flood or Flood Watch: flash flooding or flooding is possible in the designated watch area - be alert!
Flash flood or flood warning: flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent - take necessary precautions at once
Urban and small stream advisory: Flooding of small streams, street, and low-lying areas is occurring
Flash flood or flood statement: follow up information regarding a flash/flood event
*Tornado Safety Rules in Schools, US Dept of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1992
Hurricane season falls in the months of June through November. These intense tropical weather systems are characterized by well-defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 MPH or more. Yet, the strong winds are not only danger present when visited by a hurricane; storm surges, heavy rains, and tornadoes can combine to wreak havoc on coastal communities.
We tend to be well aware of the approach of hurricanes as we progress through a series of watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Before the Hurricane actually hits during the watch phases, all outdoor equipment should be secured and large windows taped or boarded. Emergency generators should be checked for proper operation and ample fuel supplies obtained.
Although school may not be in session during a hurricane strike in our area, schools are designated as shelters for the local community, so school personnel have responsibilities to ensure that the public is safely sheltered and fed. Blankets/sleeping bags must be on hand in the shelter.
These are the watches and warnings associated with the approach of a hurricane:
Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical storm conditions are possible within 36 hours
Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm conditions are expected within 24 hours
Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible within 36 hours
Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected with in 24 hours
Tropical Storms pack maximum sustained winds of 39 to 79 MPHs and contain strong thunderstorms and significant rainfall. Hurricane strength is rated on the Saffir Simpson Scale as follows:
Scale Number (Category), Sustained Winds (MPH), Damage Expected:
1: 74-95 Minimal
2: 96-110 Moderate
3: 111-130 Extensive
4: 131-155 Extreme
5: >155 Catastrophic
Hurricane Watch and Warning:
After the Storm Has Passed:
During an Earthquake:
After the Earthquake: