MAJOR STORM TO SLAM THE TRI-STATE

This morning, I wrote about the historic flooding we could face in the tri-state over the next few days. The National Weather Service warns that some areas could see up to 15 inches of rain, leading to catastrophic, life-threatening flash flooding.

APRIL 2 STORM IN INDIANA, KENTUCKY, ILLINOIS

The storm set to drench the region is shaping up to be a monster, so much so that the National Weather Service has upgraded us to a Moderate Risk Level.

We have upgraded to a tornado-driven level 4/5 risk for tomorrow. This risk is driven by the potential for a few strong/intense tornadoes. The atmosphere is expected to be most favorable for this from about 4 pm to 10 pm. The other graphic shows about where storms should be and when and that timing hasn't changed much. The flash flood risk will likely start in the late evening (9-10 pm or so).

The National Weather Service has said this is a "very active and dangerous weather pattern." Now is the time to prepare for these storms. In fact, the Weather Channel has put us in a TORCON 7 category. See the purple? That's US!

A TORCON (Tornado Condition Index) of 7 from The Weather Channel indicates a 70% chance of tornado activity within 50 miles of a specific area.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR TORNADOES

1. Identify a safe place to shelter. If you are at home, get in the most interior room in your house or in the basement. Cover yourself with pillows and blankets. Wear a helmet and sturdy shoes. Or, if you don't feel safe in your home, contact your local Emergency Management Office for shelter locations.

2. Charge your cell phone. Have a way to receive emergency alerts and to listen to our live broadcast during a tornado warning.

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3. Make a family plan. If communications are down and you are not with your family, set up a meeting place.

4. Have a go-bag. Include important documents, snacks, water, first-aid, cell charger, change of clothes, pet items, and medications.

5. Cover items of value outside in case of hail. 

HOW TO PREPARE FOR FLOODING

According to ready.gov, there are a few things you can do to prepare.

1. Make a manageable go-bag. You need something that you can easily carry if there is a flood. Include important documents, food, water, medications, phone charger, pet items, and a change of clothes. Move important items to the highest level of your home or off-site.

2. Make a family plan. Decide where to go in the event your family is separated and communications are down.

3. Move to higher ground. If you are at home, go to the highest level you can. Do not try to drive though flood waters.

4. Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.

5. Keep storm drains clear of debris. Sandbag if necessary.

TIMING OF APRIL 2 STORMS

The National Weather Service is predicting that these storms will move in around 3-9. Keep your phone charged and ready in case a tornado warning is issued.

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