Press Release

Patterson Declares April 6-12, 2008 as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Oakland County

Pontiac, MI, April 1, 2008 Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson has designated April 6-12 as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Oakland County.

During this weeklong observance special attention will be paid to heightening public awareness of the Oakland County Outdoor Warning System and promoting various steps citizens should take when the tornado sirens are activated, Patterson said.

Patterson also says it would be a good time for families, businesses and schools to develop their own tornado take cover plans.  Planning materials are available through Oakland County Emergency Response and Preparedness.

Oakland Countys Outdoor Warning sirens are tested the first Saturday of every month from March through November. However, the April test will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 9th instead of the first Saturday of the month in recognition of Severe Weather Awareness Week.

In southeast Michigan last year, there were 199 warnings issued which was above the average of 142.  Ten tornadoes were recorded, which is more than the normal average of six. 

Since 1950, 239 people have been killed as a result of tornadoes.  The deadliest Michigan tornado on record occurred on June 8, 1953 in Genesee and Lapeer Counties when 115 people were killed along the twisters 27-mile track.  This tornado still ranks as the 9th deadliest tornado in U.S. history.

A tornado watch means conditions are right for a tornado and citizens should remain alert for approaching storms.  A tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.  If a tornado warning is issued for your area and the sky becomes threatening, you are advised to move to a place of safety.  Some valuable tips to remember in case of a tornado:

• In a home or building move to a pre-designated shelter such as a basement
• If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture
• Stay away from windows
• Get out of automobiles
• Do not try to out run a tornado in your car; instead leave it immediately
• If caught outside or in a vehicle lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression
• Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned

For additional information on severe weather please click on www.oakgov.com/erp.  For media inquiries only, please contact Bob Dustman, Media and Communications Officer, 
 at (248) 858-1048.