Kay County in High Risk area added to severe storm forecast for today

A High Risk area was added to today’s severe storm forecast, including parts of Kay County, Ponca City’s Emergency Management Director Paula Cain said.

Hail to the size of softballs, damaging wind to 80 mph and violent, long-track tornadoes are expected.  Long-track tornadoes can develop anywhere and travel across multiple counties.

Timing of these storms for Kay County will be between 4 and 10 p.m.  This is a serious situation.  Here are some suggestions from Cain:

1.     Watch for weather updates, especially after 1 p.m.

2.    Decide right now where you will take shelter and inform your family.

3.    Once you get there this evening, stay home.  Forego planned events/activities tonight.

4.    Can you go home early?  Find out.

5.    Check your warning methods.  Don’t rely on sirens.  They are often damaged in thunderstorms and are just one warning method you should have.  Other options are weather radio, and phone alerts.  Most cell phones today will automatically receive Tornado Warnings, but not Severe Thunderstorm warnings.  Download an app or two that provide alerts.

6.    Local news stations all offer mobile news apps.  Pick one and download it.

7.    Secure/remove outdoor items to eliminate additional flying debris.

8.    I would strongly recommend that you take shelter immediately if a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued.  In these conditions, almost any thunderstorm can produce a tornado.  Don’t risk not having time to reach your shelter safely, if a Tornado Warning is issued.

9.    Have all your mobile devices fully charged.

10.  Remember.  Ponca City does not have a public shelter.  You must be responsible for identifying your “safe place” and using it.

Expect a siren test today at noon, and share all this information with friends & family.  An update will be released around 1 p.m.