SC Emergency Management Division offers tips for severe weather preparedness

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — The Midlands are no stranger to all kinds of severe weather — so officials are reminding everyone that being proactive is key.

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division recognizes this week as “Severe Weather and Flood Safety Week.”

Lightning, heavy winds, flooding, and tornadoes can all have dangerous and even life threatening effects on our communities.

John Quagliariello with the National Weather Service says it’s imperative for everyone to have a safety plan — especially for people who live in mobile homes.

“Occupants of mobile or manufactured homes face a staggering 15 to 20 times higher risk of fatality compared to those in permanent structures,” says Quagliariello.

SCEMD’s Director Kim Stenson says SCEMD’s website and their app for mobile phones helps families create plans and emergency kits for dealing with inclement weather, and staying up-to-date on any alerts and warnings.

Most of the Palmetto State is also considered vulnerable to severe flooding, so representatives say always take flood warnings and alerts seriously.

“A mere six inches of fast moving water can knock over an adult, and 12 inches of fast moving water can carry away most cars. Two feet can sweep away SUVs and trucks,” Quagliariello says.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (or NOAA) will also hold a statewide tornado drill this Wednesday, March 6th,  at 9 a.m. — with many schools throughout the Midlands expected to participate.

The tornado that destroyed parts of Bamberg this past January remains a reminder of how important preparation is in staying safe.

“The last thing we want, when there is a warning, let’s say for a tornado, is for people to try to think where they need to be going. Every second really counts when you’re under a tornado warning so you need to know where you’re going and how you’re going to get there. So I think this test on Wednesday is a great way to practice your plans and make sure they’re effective,” he says.

South Carolina also utilizes a wireless emergency alert system — notifying all smart phone users of tornado and flash flood warnings and even severe thunderstorms in some extreme cases.

For more information on Wednesday’s tornado drill you can visit SCEMD’s website here.