RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the National Weather Service announced Severe Weather Awareness Week is taking place from March 10 to March 14.
The statewide initiative aims to educate residents about the risks associated with severe weather, provide life-saving information, and encourage proactive planning for extreme weather events, according to VDEM.
“Severe weather can be unpredictable, and our primary goal is to empower our communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to stay safe,” said VDEM State Coordinator John Scrivani. “By partnering with the National Weather Service, we are bringing together expert insights to ensure that every Virginian is prepared, informed, and resilient in the face of severe weather events.”
Throughout the week, a different topic will be covered and shared on social media. The information shared will focus on preparedness tips and ways to stay safe during severe weather.
- MONDAY: Watch vs Warning
- TUESDAY: Tornadoes
- WEDNESDAY: Severe Thunderstorms (Hail, Lightning, and Wind)
- THURSDAY: Flash Flooding
- FRIDAY: Outdoor Weather Safety
During the week, NWS will offer a basic and advanced Skywarn training class covering how thunderstorms form and look at the weather types they can produce from strong winds, hail and even tornadoes. It will also cover the ways that spotters can report this significant weather.
The class will be offered virtually during Severe Weather Awareness Week and in person at several locations across the area this spring. Residents can sign up and register for the class and see a list of classes being offered here.
- Virtual Basic Skywarn Training Class — Tuesday, March 11 at 1 p.m. Register Here
- Virtual Advanced Skywarn Training Class — Thursday, March 13 at 1 p.m. Register Here
“Effective communication and preparedness are the keys to reducing the risks associated with severe weather,” added Jeff Orrock, NWS Wakefield Meteorologist in Charge. “We are excited to collaborate with our state partners to spread awareness and foster a culture of safety throughout Virginia.”
Residents, educators, community leaders, and local officials are encouraged to learn more about emergency preparedness to help keep all Virginians safe. More information can be found on the VDEM and NWS websites.
