Prepare for stormy weather

Center News

Know how to read the forecasts for inclement weather and use the Center's Emergency Information Hotline

Just like those safety messages we get on board every airplane, it may be tempting to tune out a season of ongoing messages about inclement weather. But what you don't know about the roads ahead could come back to strand you or at the very least, complicate your commute to work. So as winter and the likelihood of extreme weather conditions approaches, take advantage of every opportunity to prepare and try to stay one step ahead of Mother Nature.

During times of inclement weather, vital National Weather Service (NWS) information is available on NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, on local radio or television stations or from the Seattle National Weather Service Web page: www.wrh.noaa.gov/sew.

The NWS uses a three-tier approach consisting of outlooks, watches and warnings, to alert the public for the potential for severe weather.

A hazardous weather outlook is issued daily to indicate that a hazardous weather or hydrologic event may occur in the next several days. The outlook will include information about potential severe thunderstorms, heavy rain or flooding, winter weather, extremes of heat or cold, etc., that may develop over the next seven days with an emphasis on the first 24 hours of the forecast. It is intended to provide information to those who need considerable lead time to prepare for the event.

A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their plans in motion can do so. A watch means that hazardous weather is possible. People should have a plan of action in case a storm threatens and they should listen for later information and possible warnings especially when planning travel or outdoor activities.

A warning is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent or likely. A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the path of the storm need to take protective action.

The Center's policy is to remain open during inclement weather except under the most extreme conditions. In such events, city or state officials generally will recommend closure for traffic safety. But essential-service areas, such as patient care, maintenance, security and animal-health resources, may operate nonetheless. Staff in essential positions must report to work on regular workdays during a closure. Essential-service staff members are preadvised about such requirements. Now is the time for supervisors to discuss these requirements with essential-service personnel.

Throughout the season, make sure to keep the Center's Emergency Information Hotline (888) 667-2020 and Emergency Information Web address http://status.fhcrc.org close at hand.

Staff should assume the Center is open unless the Emergency Information Hotline or Web site indicates otherwise.

A message regarding status of any Center closure is recorded by 6 a.m. on the hotline and the Web site.

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