Being prepared in case of severe storm weather

As communities in Western Nebraska brace for a weekend of possible wintery weather, cities to the east are preparing for more precipitation and wind.

Yesterday, Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts surveyed storm damage in Lincoln and surrounding communities from a helicopter.

A storm on Wednesday led to power outages and flooding near Lincoln.

“I have authorized an emergency declaration,” he announced in a statement. “At this time, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency is in contact with other state agencies and they are actively monitoring the situation and will provide assistance as needed.”

While Sidney has so far avoided tornado warnings this year, John Hehnke, City of Sidney public services director, said it’s important to be prepared.

Storm season is just around the corner, he said.

“Typically, we’re looking in May and June,” he said.

Sirens are located throughout the city to serve as an outdoor early warning device, he explained.

The system is tested every Wednesday at 10 a.m., but if sirens are heard at other times, it means to get inside.

The sirens are generally activated if a tornado is spotted within 10 miles of Sidney or if the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning that encompasses Sidney.

Typically, the sirens will sound for three minutes in such instances. However, if a warning is extended or an initial funnel cloud dissipates but another returns, the system may be activated again.

Hehnke said the city will not activate the system to sound an all clear.

“It the sirens go off, we’re asking people to take shelter because there is an imminent threat,” he said. “We suggest going to a basement or interior room.”

Hehnke cautioned the sirens are solely meant to alert people outside about severe weather.

A radio that broadcasts weather alerts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is the best way to stay informed of weather while inside, he said.

The broadcasts provide detailed information and also let people know when warnings have been lifted.

Additionally, he suggested residents keep an emergency kit handy.

“The full emergency kit would be water and food for three days, batteries for a radio,” he said. “Then, looking at other items, a first-aid kit and if you have infants or small children, make sure you have supplies for their needs – if infants, think about diapers, formula and those kinds of things.”

However, the No. 1 item should be an NOAA radio, he said.

“It lets people know not only when watches are issued, but also additional information – and if things are extended or cleared,” he said.