February 18, 2005
By Ken Bonner
The Daily Sentinel

Severe Weather Awareness Week concludes today with a comprehensive look at NOAA Weather Radio and the Emergency Alert System (EAS).

NOAA Weather Radio is the voice of the (NWS) National Weather Service. It provides updated weather information continuously, 24 hours a day.

In Alabama 29 transmitters serve approximately 95 of the state’s residents. The Jackson County area is within range of stations in Fort Payne and Huntsville.

A special radio is needed to receive signals for NOAA. They can be found at most discount and electronic stores at reasonable prices.

NOAA Weather Radio is important during severe weather outbreaks. Watches, warnings and statements are broadcast in three to five minute intervals. A warning signal on the radio activates the specially designed receiver by increasing the volume or producing a visual and/or audible alarm.

EAS provides critical warning information rapidly through commercial radio and television outlets. Those media receive emergency information direct from the NWS and can pass it on to a mass audience.

On Thursday the focus of the weeklong educational activities of Severe Weather Awareness Week was on flooding and flash floods. Flooding is the number one weather related killer in the United States.

Flooding can come in the form of flash floods, urban/area floods or river flooding. All are dangerous and threaten life as well as property.

Flash flooding can occur within a few minutes. It is sudden short-term flooding that lasts less than six hours.

Watches for flash flooding are issued when conditions are favorable for such an occurrence. They are replaced by warnings when flooding is occurring or is imminent within six hours of the event.

Flooding can be exaggerated in urban areas where asphalt and concrete increases runoff two to six times over what would occur on natural terrain. Streets, drainage systems and parking lots can quickly become swift-moving rivers. Debris is swept along with the water, which in itself can be powerful enough to sweep a car away.

River flooding is more natural. It occurs along rivers, streams and creeks and is generally caused by excessive rainfall over a period of time. Warnings are issued when flooding is occurring or expected to occur.

A few simple safety rules can prevent injury or death when any type of flooding threatens.

The NWS reminds people to move to higher ground during periods of heavy rain and to avoid low lying areas, streambeds, culverts and drainage ditches. Don’t venture into flooded areas or those known to be flood prone during an event.

Never ever try to drive a vehicle through water of unknown depth or rapidly moving water. Do not drive around barricades and be especially careful at night when it is harder to recognize possible flood dangers.

It’s best to simply adhere to the NWS main rule: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

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