IT'S SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK!

Written by: Bob Metcalfe

Our National Weather Service office in Buffalo declared this week (May 3-9) "Severe Weather Awareness Week" in western New York. Each day, they are focusing on a different aspect of severe weather that can occur here in WNY.

Today's theme: Preparedness. Now some may say "We don't get severe weather here in Rochester." That is a dangerous misconception. In fact, hail caused thousands of dollars of damage to crops last year, devastating some farmers. A few years ago, a small tornado crossed over I-90 flipping over a tractor-trailer while causing widespread damage.

So how can you prepare for severe weather? Well you can start by making a plan for your family in the case of severe weather developing. Determine a safe shelter, decide the best/quickest routes to it, and follow the plan in the event of severe weather. Also know where to turn to get the latest severe weather information (WROC-8 and rochesterhomepage.net may be a good place to start!) during bad weather.

Also know to postpone outdoor activities. This one is a no-brainer (I hope!)

For more information on Severe Weather Awareness week, head to the NWS Buffalo site by clicking here.