SCEMD encourages preparedness during “Severe Weather and Flood Safety Week”

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — The South Carolina Emergency Management Division recognizes March 8th-March 14th as “Severe Weather and Flood Safety Week.”

The annual event serves as a reminder to plan and prepare for dangerous conditions — including tornadoes.

State Climatologist Hope Mizzell says severe weather and flooding can happen anytime of year, but when it comes to tornadoes in SC, 40% occur in March, April, and May.

Now, she says, is the best time to prepare.

“Over the last 30 years, an average of 27 tornadoes occur in SC each year. However, that number varies significantly. In 2016, we only had four tornadoes, but there were 86 tornadoes in this state in 2004,” says Mizzell.

Director Kim Stenson recommends downloading the SCEMD app on your mobile phone for updates and alerts — or visiting SCEMD.org — where you’ll find useful tips on what to do before, during, and after a number of weather events — including not only tornadoes, but thunderstorms, hail storms, and flooding.

“Everyone should have a personalized emergency plan tailored to your family’s needs. Every household is different so take time now to review your plan,” says Stenson.

On Wednesday, March 11th, local officials will team up with the National Weather Service for a statewide tornado drill at 9 a.m. — at which time practice alerts will be sent out over the NOAA Weather Radio.

“This is an excellent opportunity for schools, businesses, and residents to practice their emergency preparedness plans,” says John Quagliariello with the Columbia division of the National Weather Service.

For information on what to do before, during, and after a thunderstorm, click here.

For information on what to do before, during, and after a tornado, click here.

For flood safety tips, visit here.