Fw: Prepare for possibly Strong Storms and Wind this Weekend
Allen, Burkley (Council Member)
Burkley
Metro Council At-Large
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2025 14:44
To: Pleasant, Joseph (NFD) <Joseph....@nashville.gov>
Subject: Prepare for possibly Strong Storms and Wind this Weekend
The storms will also bring heavy rain and the possibility of tornadoes.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 13, 2025) – Strong winds and storms are possible Friday night and into Saturday morning. Then another round of storms is expected Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) confidence is high that multiple rounds of severe weather will impact Middle TN. All severe weather hazards are possible during the duration of this event - including damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes.
Storms will begin moving into the area late Friday night and continue through early Saturday morning. OEM has increased staffing in our 24-hour OEM Operations Dispatch Center to handle any additional weather alerts and calls we may receive.
There is uncertainty in whether the area will get a break in storms Saturday morning. If we do not, severe weather potential will be continuous through Saturday evening.
The Metro Nashville Davidson County area is under an Enhanced Risk a level 3 out of 5 on the NWS risk scale.
The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) uses a five-point scale, ranging from "Marginal" to "High" Risk, and an Enhanced Risk is the middle option. As the name suggests, this means that there is an enhanced potential for dangerous weather compared to Slight Risk areas.
Main impacts would be damaging winds and heavy rain.
These strong winds can blow away lightweight and loose outdoor objects, down trees and tree branches, and cause sporadic power outages. Secure any outdoor objects now and use caution if driving Tuesday, especially on east-west oriented roads.
The forecast nighttime arrival of storms also means you should start preparing for ways to get weather alerts.
It is important you take precautions during this weather event both at home and when traveling along roadways.
Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles such as box trucks and 18-wheelers.
You should have multiple ways of getting weather alerts.
For important safety information and weather updates sign up for the Metro Emergency Alert & Notification System. (MEANS) It is free to download.
Monitor local news and weather channels or websites for severe weather alerts and warnings.
Check the National Weather Service website for the latest information.
Gather Your Emergency Kit:
Essentials:
Flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, first-aid kit, and a manual can opener.
Supplies:
Water (one gallon per person per day for several days), non-perishable food, prescription medications, and personal hygiene items.
Important Documents: Keep copies of essential documents like driver's licenses, insurance policies, and medical information in a waterproof bag.
Other:
Work gloves, duct tape, sleeping gear, and basic hand tools.
Secure Your Home:
Close windows and doors and secure any loose objects outside.
Trim trees and branches near your house.
Consider moving valuable objects inside or under a sturdy structure.
Have a Plan:
Know your local emergency routes and evacuation procedures.
Designate a safe room or area in your home, away from windows and doors.
Practice your plan with your family.
During the Storm:
Stay Indoors:
If you are outside, seek shelter in a sturdy building or hard-top vehicle.
If you are already inside, move to the center of the building, away from windows and doors.
Stay Safe:
Avoid contact with water, especially during flash floods.
Turn off utilities if necessary, following instructions from local authorities.
Stay calm and follow instructions from emergency services.
Never drive through standing water or go around barricades. #TurnAroundDontDrown
After the Storm:
Check for damage to your home and property.
Monitor weather conditions and follow any instructions from local authorities.
Be aware of potential hazards, such as downed power lines and debris.
Portable Generator Safety:
- Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust by operating your generator outside for proper ventilation.
- Never refuel your generator when it is running. Let it cool down first.
- Do not store fuel in a garage, basement or inside your home. Vapors can be released that can cause illness and are a potential fire hazard.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector inside your home to warn you in case of a gas leak.
- Never hook up a generator directly to your home's electrical service or wiring. This can cause back feeding and poses a serious risk to NES line workers.
- Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
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