Richland County Emergency Management

Strong to Severe Storms Possible this Afternoon into Tonight

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Strong to severe storms with heavy rainfall are possible this afternoon into tonight. Confidence remains low with regard to the exact timing/track of these storms, but a severe threat looks to exist mainly this afternoon and evening while a flood threat would continue into tonight.

Hazards: Damaging winds, heavy rain, and localized flooding will be the main hazards. Some large hail also possible.

Areas Impacted: Entire area at risk for strong to severe storms and heavy rainfall.

Timing & Duration : Severe threat will exist mainly this afternoon through the evening. Heavy rain and flood threat will exist this afternoon into tonight.

Impacts: Damaging winds could lead to tree damage and downed power lines. Some hail damage possible. Localized flooding may occur where storms repeatedly move over the same area.

Certainty & Considerations : Confidence remains low with regard to the exact timing and track of storms today, but multiple rounds of storms are possible this afternoon through tonight. The environment will be most favorable for severe storm development this afternoon into this evening.

Any prolonged power outages may be more problematic for those sensitive to the increasing heat and humidity.

Stay weather aware today and monitor the latest forecast for updates, especially if you have outdoor plans!

Stay Alert When Severe Weather Threatens

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With the warm summer weather having arrived, it’s important to remember that with it comes more active weather patterns. Though it is often said “Red at night, sailors’s delight; red at morning, sailor take warning,” you might find yourself in need of a more thorough warning system between the sunrise and sunset. Whether it be severe thunderstorms and tornados or excessive heat warnings, staying alert to the forecast can save lives.

Days ahead of severe weather, information typically begins to reflect the potential threat. As it gets closer and forecasters are able to more accurately anticipate the type of weather to impact an area, watches may be issued. If the area is under a watch, it means that the conditions are taking place that could lead to more severe weather. It’s important to have a plan on how you’re going to be informed if a warning is issued. A warning means that the severe weather is imminent and to respond accordingly. For example, in a tornado warning, you would want to get to the basement or inner-most room whereas for a flood warning, you would want to seek higher ground.

Watches and warnings are issued by the National Weather Service. The NOAA Storm Prediction Center in Norman, OK, monitors weather conditions across the US and issues daily forecasts showing areas of the country that are likely to experience severe weather. In the hours before storms form, the Storm Prediction Center discusses the weather with the National Weather Service offices within the areas at risk. The Storm Prediction Center then issues a watch to notify people within those areas to stay alert for severe weather. These will also include information about what type of weather events (i.e. strong winds) may take place for you to be able to prepare accordingly. It is important that you stay alert for developing storms and understand your risk. Tune into the local news for updates on conditions or get instant alerts from your NOAA weather radio.

If you prefer notifications to come to your smartphone, there are several apps on the market. Madison and LaCrosse television stations may have weather apps available. You can access these from their websites, Google Play store and Apple Store. There are other weather apps such as NOAA Radar Pro, Wunderground, Storm, Red Cross Emergency, AccuWeather, and Storm Tracker that you can download to your smartphone and personalize. Emergency Management does not endorse a specific app but encourages the use of these apps because they receive the data directly from the Weather Service issuing the watch or warning, thus eliminating any delay that may occur in utilizing other warning message systems, such as Nixle. Warning time is increased when the source of information is directly linked to the warning agency. Do not rely solely on any one alert system, as any form of technology can malfunction. Instead, have multiple alert systems to ensure notifications are received. As they say, one is none, two is one.

It is important to stay alert during this season and always, as a sunny day in Wisconsin can quickly turn into a stormy one. No matter the weather on the horizon, have a plan on how you’ll be informed.

Richland County Warming Centers

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Richland Center, WI:  Due to the extreme cold forecasted for the next few days, the following Richland County warming centers have been identified by Richland County Public Health.  The Richland County Courthouse will be the primary warming center and will have Conference Room 2 open for individuals during weekdays from 8:30AM to 4:30PM.  Other options may include the Richland Center Community/Senior Center during its business hours, 8:00AM to 5:00PM daily.

Warming centers have also been opened in Viola.  The Viola Public Library is open on Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30AM to 12:30 PM and from 1:00PM to 5:00PM and on Wednesday and Friday from 2:00 to 7:00PM.  If needed, the library will also be open from 9:30AM to 12:30PM on Saturday.  If the library needs to accessed, please call 627-1850 to ensure that the building is open.  Options in Viola may also include the Village of Viola Office open from 8:30AM to 4:30PM daily.  Before accessing the Viola Village Office please call 627-1831 to confirm its availability.

In Lone Rock, the Lone Rock Village Office will be open from 8:00AM to 4:00PM for those seeking relief from the cold.

Local officials will determine whether warming centers are safe to be open.  Listen for updated announcements regarding whether a site is open.

Utilization of the sites will be monitored to identify if a need exists or if the weather warrants the continued need for such.

Visit the Richland County website at co.richland.wi.us. Select the Emergency Management and Resources tabs for more information on the location of warming center locations.

Weather Story – January 28, 2019

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Click the tabs for the full Weather Story.

Snow Tapering Off, Slick Roads RemainDangerous Cold Weather On The Way!Dress For The ColdRecognizing Hypothermia

Severe cold weather talking points from ReadyWisconsin – Updated 01-25-19

Widespread snow is expected across the southern two thirds of the state Sunday night through Monday. Over 6 inches are possible across the southern half of Wisconsin. Areas from Door County to Kenosha could see higher totals, due to lake effect snow. There is still some uncertainty with the track of this storm and we will have a better idea of snowfall totals later this weekend.

After the snow, dangerous and potential record cold sets in mid-week for the entire state. Beginning Tuesday, low temperatures will range from -20℉ to -30℉, combined with wind chills of -40℉. These bitter cold temperatures will continue into Thursday.  The Superior area could see wind chills near -50℉.

To help protect yourself, your family, and your property, consider taking the following steps:

  • Limit your time outdoors. If you must be outside, dress for the weather. Wear loose-fitting layers, a hat, gloves and snow boots. Make sure you have a scarf or some other way to cover your face.
  • Know the signs of hypothermia, which include excessive shivering, exhaustion, confusion, and slurred speech. If you or anyone around you begins to show symptoms, call 911 immediately.
  • Know the signs of frostbite, which include a white or grayish-yellow skin area, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, and numbness. If you detect symptoms, get to a warm area. Do not try to rub them, as it can cause more damage.
  • Check the supplies in your home and vehicle emergency kits. If food items or batteries have expired or run low, replace them.
  • Test the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors around your home. If you can’t remember the last time you changed the batteries, go ahead and replace them.
  • Check your furnace to make sure it is working properly. If you rely on heating oil or propane, make sure you have enough to last through the current period of cold temperatures and schedule a delivery before you start to run low.
  • Do not attempt to use gasoline or propane heaters or a grill to heat your home or garage. Those devices produce carbon monoxide, which could be deadly in enclosed areas.
  • Prepare your vehicle for the possible effects of the cold weather. Keep the gas tank at least half-full. Pack an emergency kit with items such as food, water, extra blankets and warm clothing, booster cables, and a cell phone charger.
  • Make sure water pipes in unheated areas are properly insulated. If you have faucets served by exposed pipes, let water drip from them or run at a slow trickle to prevent freezing. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow heat to get to the pipes.
  • If you have pets, limit their time outdoors. Dogs and cats can get frost-bitten ears, nose and feet if left outside during bitter cold weather. For livestock, make sure they have access to extra food and a water source that will not freeze over. Outdoor animals need access to a dry place to seek shelter. Help provide a windbreak for larger animals and an enclosed space for smaller animals to help them retain their body heat.

Additional tips on dealing with extreme cold and making an emergency kit are available at http://readywisconsin.wi.gov

News Release – Public Health Hazards in Relation to Flooding

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Urgent News Release #1
Richland County Health & Human Services
Rose Kohout, Health Officer
(608) 649-5965
rose.kohout@co.richland.wi.us

For immediate release: September 5, 2018

PUBLIC HEALTH HAZARDS IN RELATION TO FLOODING

Richland Center, WI: Richland County Health & Human Services is advising the public of the potential Public Health hazards in relation to the area flooding.

Water Safety

After flooding occurs, do not use water for drinking, brushing teeth, cooking, or making ice unless you are certain that it is safe.

The DNR is recommending that if wells are submerged they should be disinfected prior to completing a well sample. Please contact the Public Health Department or check out our website for further information regarding the technique involved with disinfecting a well. The Public Health Department is recommending that all well samples be collected when they can be tested during the work week.  By doing so, a property owner avoids having a sample being considered too old to test.  This is particularly important due to the upcoming weekend. Water test kits may be picked up at the Community Services Building Monday through Friday from 8am – 5pm.

Mold

After a flood, mold will grow in your house and can make you sick. Items that were wet for 2 or more days should be taken outside, as they have mold growing on them even if you can’t see it. Hard surfaced items can be cleaned with soap and water and then sanitized with a bleach solution. Cloth items can be washed in hot water. Please contact the Public Health Department or check out our website for further information regarding the techniques involved with removing mold from household items.

Tetanus

First aid, even for minor cuts and burns, is very important during flood clean-up. Immediately clean  all open wounds and cuts with soap and clean water. Most cuts, except minor scratches, will require treatment to prevent tetanus. Talk to a doctor to find out what treatment you need.

Avoid wading in water without proper foot protection. Broken glass, metal fragments, and other debris may be submerged in the flooded area. Wear proper eyewear, gloves, and other protective equipment when cleaning an area. If you are cut or punctured, contact your physician or local health department as soon as possible. Tetanus vaccinations may be necessary. We have tetanus available at the Community Services Building.

Mosquitoes

Elimination of artificial breeding sites such as tin cans, tires, and tree holes will help control the breeding of pest and disease carrying mosquitoes. Empty, remove, cover, or turn upside down any receptacle that could hold water. Properly discard unused tires and keep wanted tires inside or under cover. Also, make sure rain gutters and downspouts are clean and draining properly.

Use repellant safely. Choose a product that meets your needs for the time you will be outdoors and the amount of mosquito activity, and use the repellant according to label directions. Spray repellant sparingly and only on exposed skin or on the top of clothing. Do not spray repellants in a confined space and do not apply repellants to children’s hands or allow them to apply repellants. Wash treated skin when protection is no longer needed.

The most effective repellants contain DEET. Products containing 30% DEET are considered safe in routine control of ticks and mosquitoes in adults and children over two months of age. No adverse effects from DEET use have been reported in pregnant or lactating women.

Richland County Health & Human Services Public Health Department: (608) 647-8821

Richland County Flood Information Website: https://em.co.richland.wi.us

News Release – Public Hazards in Relation to Flooding

https://em.co.richland.wi.us/