FEMA Grant Helps Boost Indiana’s Weather Preparedness

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) just received a bunch of money that will help Hoosiers stay safe during severe weather. The department has been awarded a $150,000 grant from FEMA’s Next Generation Warning System (NGWS) Grant Program. The money will be used to purchase and distribute NOAA Weather Radios across the state.

Why Weather Radios Are So Important

If you’re not familiar with them, these weather radios are one of the most reliable ways to get real-time alerts directly from the National Weather Service. They don’t rely on cell service or the internet – many are even battery-operated, which means users can stay informed even during power outages. That’s especially important during tornadoes, flash floods, or other extreme weather events when communication networks can go down.

ALSO READ: AccuWeather - Southern Indiana Faces a Bad Winter in 2025

Reaching Indiana’s Most Vulnerable Communities

According to IDHS officials, this grant will help increase Indiana’s ability to deliver timely and consistent public warnings at the local, state, and federal levels. The department plans to prioritize high-risk areas for radio distribution, including flood plains, riverfront neighborhoods, mobile home parks, campgrounds, and industrial zones near waterways - places where the impact of severe weather can be especially dangerous.

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A Reminder to Stay Weather-Ready

This initiative is all about making sure every Hoosier, no matter where they live, has access to critical safety information when it matters most. So, if you don’t already have a weather radio, it might be a good time to add one to your emergency kit. After all, when the storm hits, being informed can make all the difference.

10 Weather Myths We've All Fallen For

Didd you know heat lightning isn’t actually a real thing? It’s just regular lightning from a thunderstorm that’s too far away for you to hear the thunder or see the strike hit the ground. I know, my whole life has been a lie too. But wait, there’s more! Keep scrolling for even more weather myths we’ve all fallen for.

KEEP READING: Get answers to 51 of the most frequently asked weather questions...

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