Louisville City Wire

Louisville Metro Emergency Services today joined a call with the National Weather Service (NWS) to gain awareness of the severe weather anticipated in the Louisville area overnight. Emergency Services personnel are currently monitoring the weather at a Level 1 status.
According to the NWS, a strong weather system will bring multiple rounds of showers and storms to the region. Strong and severe storms are likely overnight. Louisville is at an enhanced risk for damaging (70+ mph) winds and tornadoes. The NWS anticipates the weather will impact Louisville between midnight and 7 a.m. EST.

Emergency Services advises all residents to secure any loose outdoor items and to be aware of flying debris. Tree limbs may break, and signs may come loose during strong winds. Never touch downed power lines or anything that may be touching the line.

“With the threat of severe weather over the nighttime hours, we urge everyone to identify a safe place in their residence and practice going there, especially if you have young children in your home” said Jody Meiman, Executive Director of Louisville Metro Emergency Services. “This is a good time to make sure you have fresh batteries in your NOAA weather radio and flashlights, charge your cell phone and other devices, and keep your emergency kit and a pair of sturdy shoes next to your bed.”

Meiman advises residents take the following preparedness steps:

•    Check the forecast regularly, be aware of active warnings and watches, and sign up for emergency notifications.

•    Identify a safe place in your residence such as a basement, storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows, and practice going there.

•    Prepare an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, first aid kit, batteries, water and food, prescription medications and an extra cell phone battery or chargers.

•    Remember, outdoor sirens are designed to warn people outdoors to seek shelter immediately and are NOT designed to warn indoor inhabitants.

•    Flashlights and battery-operated candles are recommended for emergency lighting. If using real candles, be sure they are in a sturdy non-combustible container, keep them clear of combustibles and never leave them unattended. Be sure to extinguish candles before leaving the home or going to sleep.

 

Because any weather pattern can quickly change, Emergency Services encourages all residents to sign up for LENSAlert (Louisville Emergency Notification System) to receive real-time weather updates, travel advisories and safety information. LENSAlert is the tool Emergency Services uses to communicate minute by minute with residents during an emergency. Alerts can be received via text, email, call or push notifications.

 

To sign up to receive emergency notifications, text “LENSALERT” to 67283 or visit https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=JeffersonCountyKYEMA.

Original source can be found here.