We are definitely in tornado season in Oklahoma, and last weekend’s deadly twister in Woodward serves as a powerful reminder of that fact. Although there were news reports throughout the weekend that conditions were ripe for dangerous storms, many had thought the danger had passed and were sound asleep when the tornado hit after midnight. In addition, power outages prevented sirens from sounding warnings.

 Even when there are no electrical problems, none of us should ever rely on sirens alone. Their main function is to warn people who are outside, whether they’re at a park, taking a walk, driving or working outdoors. Depending on the structure of a home or building and the distance from the siren, you may not even hear it. If you live in a remote, rural part of the state, you may not even have a siren in your area at all.

Fortunately, there are other ways to stay on top of important weather information, especially this time of year. The National Weather Service produces 24-hour weather broadcasts that include warning tones when severe storms are approaching your area. Special radios allow you to tune into those broadcasts and receive weather alerts. You can purchase these radios at retail electronics stores or order them on line.

Many TV stations offer free programs that will send warnings to your email address or your cell phone. In addition the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management also has a program you can sign up for online to send electronic notices. You can sign up at https://www.ok.gov/notifications/index.php. The warnings are for all types of severe weather, including tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, winter storms and flooding.

Remember that if a tornado watch is issued, it means tornadoes are possible. A warning means one has been spotted or indicated on radar, and you should seek shelter immediately. If you have a storm shelter or safe room, you should take cover there. If not, you should go to the most interior room of your house, like a hallway, closet or bathroom.  Mobile homes are simply not safe and you should seek shelter elsewhere.

 If you would like to find out more about storm preparedness, go to the main website for the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management at http://www.ok.gov/OEM/.

As always, I welcome your comments on state government. Please feel free to contact me by writing to Senator Charles Wyrick at the State Capitol, Room 521, Oklahoma City, OK, 73105; call me at (405) 521-5561.