Richland County Emergency Management

Press Release – Anticipated Rainfalls Present Potential Flood Risk

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Anticipated Rainfalls Present Potential Flood Risk

It is anticipated that the area will see several rounds of rain and storms over the next seven to 10 days. Cumulative rainfall from these events has potential to cause significant flooding across the region. Now is the time to prepare. Though it may be minor amounts of rainfall each day, the cumulative effect is the major concern due to the already high water tables and recent record rainfalls. This will lead to increased runoff and rising water levels. There is a possibility for the area to experience flash flood and/or areal flood warnings in the coming days. Access to homes or properties can be impacted if culverts become plugged in high water situations; area residents are encouraged to remove debris from private culverts ahead of the anticipated rains to ensure the runoff can move downstream smoothly and decrease the impacts to homes and roadways. Should the water rise over roads, remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. If your home or access is known to be impacted by high water, it is encouraged that you begin making plans and preparing now. While it is uncertain how much rain will fall, it is advisable to hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

Flash Flooding Possible Late Tonight. Dangerous Heat Thursday into Friday.

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2016-07-19

Thunderstorms could produce heavy rainfall across parts of the area late tonight into Wednesday morning which may lead to flash flooding. Be prepared to seek higher ground if you are in a flood prone area. Those camping near streams or coulee areas should be alert for rising water levels and possible flash flooding. Hot and humid conditions are expected Thursday into Friday when afternoon heat index values of 100 to 115 are possible. The worst conditions are expected Thursday afternoon.

Richland County to Host Storm Spotter Training

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In partnership with Richland County Emergency Management, the National Weather Service will be offering a storm spotter training class at the Richland Center Community Center (1050 N Orange Street) on March 14 from 6:30-8:30pm. This free training opportunity will feature training on recognizing severe weather and how to report it. This interactive multimedia presentation is given by a meteorologist, including various images and video loops from past storms in Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

Richland County typically calls upon Pine Valley Repeaters ARES/RACES members to be dispatched to specified locations due to their abilities to communicate real-time information via radio. However, you are still encouraged to attend even if you are not a trained radio operator. Contact information will be provided so any trained spotter may call in and report severe weather from their location. As a trained spotter, you would be able to watch the weather in the comfort of your home, knowing you have the knowledge on how to recognize a significant weather event, to quickly and accurately report it, to keep your family and neighbors safe.

This short training is recommended for anyone who regularly spends time outside, who are responsible for the safety of a group of people, or who enjoy learning about the weather. Because of the complexity of severe thunderstorms and the potential dangers involved, spotting is recommended for adults (18 yrs or older). High school and Middle school students are welcome to attend the class with a parent or other adult. The La Crosse NWS recommends spotters attend a training session at least every other year. For more information, please visit http://www.weather.gov/arx/skywarn_schedule or call 647-8187.

Storm Spotter_Flyer

Are You Ready for Winter?

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“Get an emergency kit in your car. It could save your life”

(MADISON) – Governor Scott Walker has declared November 10-14, 2014 as Winter Awareness Week in Wisconsin.  The annual campaign, sponsored by Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM), its ReadyWisconsin preparedness program and NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS), is to remind people to be prepared for winter conditions that could threaten their safety.

“The number one thing to do: make sure you have an emergency supply kit in your car – it could save your life,” says Brian Satula, Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator.

Winter storms are considered deceptive killers because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. For example, in the last five years Wisconsin has averaged 18,000 motor vehicle crashes during winter months. On average, 45 people are killed each year and more than 4700 injured on icy or snow-covered roads.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is also a danger. According to the Centers for Disease Control, carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United States, with more than 20,000 people visiting the emergency room and nearly 500 killed each year from overexposure to the gas.

Now is the time to winterize your car and home, gather items for an emergency kit in your car, and make sure you have a NOAA Weather Radio with fresh batteries. Additional winter weather tips and how to put together a winter emergency kit are available at the ReadyWisconsin website. Residents also can sign up for a chance to win an emergency winter kit. The web address is readywisconsin.wi.gov. In addition, there are numerous winter storm maps and a history of Wisconsin’s winter weather produced by the National Weather Service.

(Please see links below for more information and second message with remaining pages of release)

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