Know Severe Weather Terminology as We Head into Spring

Posted on Author Lenny Dessauer

As we turn the corner into spring, the weather will become more volatile.

The observation of Severe Weather Preparedness Week is underway, and Marshall County EMA Director Clyde Avery says it’s a time to alert the public about the hazards of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Meteorologists will be using terms like severe thunderstorm watch, and severe thunderstorm warning and Avery says it’s important that residents know the difference.

“Watches indicate that conditions are favorable for severe weather and that people should keep an eye to the sky. They should monitor local news media outlets that provide information regarding severe weather. A warning means that severe weather is imminent or is actually occurring, and residents need to take some sort of safety action,” explained Avery.

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Watch for Rising Water Levels

Posted on Author Lenny Dessauer

Rapid melting of snow could lead to minor flooding issues as temperatures warm up this week.

Snow melt and frozen ground will prevent the water from being absorbed. The National Weather Service says this combination will result in flooding of low lying areas, ponding on roads, and a rise in water levels in ditches, creeks and retention ponds.

Weather officials believe that river flooding will not be a concern at this time.

Marshall County EMA Director Clyde Avery said that no flood watches or warnings have been issued. He does encourage those who live in flood-prone areas to take precautions to prevent flooding. Never allow children to play near flooded areas. Do not drive around barricades that are blocking roads that are flooded. Road beds may be washed out by flood waters.

Marshall County residents can pick up sand and sandbags at the old EMA office located just north of the Marshall County Highway garage at 9515 King Road. For more information, contact the Marshall County Management Agency at (574) 936-3740.

Wind Chill Advisory Takes Effect This Afternoon

Posted on Author Lenny Dessauer

A wind chill advisory will take effect this afternoon and remain in place through midday tomorrow. Dangerous wind chill values between 10 and 25 below zero are expected late this afternoon through tomorrow morning. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to hypothermia and frostbite in 30 minutes or less. If you have to be outside, wear a hat and gloves and protect exposed skin.

Winter Weather Advisory in Effect

Posted on Author Lenny Dessauer

Marshall and Starke Counties are under a winter weather advisory until 7 a.m. ET Sunday.

The National Weather Service is forecasting snow accumulation between one and four inches, but due to the nature of lake effect snow those totals may vary. Snow bands may set up and create further accumulations. Northwest winds could gust as high as 45 mph that will result in significant blowing and drifting snow with reduced visibilities. Wind chills will drop to dangerous levels below zero.

Officials are urging motorists to take extreme caution when traveling today.

Winter Storm Warning Remains in Effect

Posted on Author Lenny Dessauer

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the MAX-FM listening area through 7 a.m. EST/6 a.m. CST. A combination of light and blowing and drifting snow will make travel difficult to impossible, and some unplowed roads are likely impassable. Motorists should only travel in an emergency. If you do venture out, be sure to take a flashlight, extra food and water, a shovel, blankets, jumper cables, a cell phone charger and sand or kitty litter to use for traction should you become stuck. Continue reading →