Preparedness for Weather Hazards

Americans live in the most severe weather-prone country on Earth. Each year, Americans cope with an average of 100,000 thunderstorms, 10,000 of which are severe; 5,000 floods; 1,000 tornadoes; and an average of 2 land falling deadly hurricanes. And this on top of winter storms, intense summer heat, high winds, wild fires and other deadly weather impacts. Some 90% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $14 billion in damage.

1. Earthquakes
   Surviving an earthquake and reducing its health impact requires preparation, planning, and practice. Far in advance, you can gather emergency supplies, identify and reduce possible hazards in your home, and practice what to do during and after an earthquake. Learning what actions to take can help you and your family to remain safe and healthy in the event of an earthquake.
2. Extreme Heat

Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this fact, more than 600 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Find  helpful tips, information, and resources to help you stay safe in the extreme heat.

3. Floods

Floods, big or small, can have devastating effects on your home and your family. You can take steps to reduce the harm caused by flooding. Learn how to prepare for a flood, stay safe during a flood, and protect your health when you return home after a flood.

4. Landslides

Landslides occur when masses of rock, earth, or debris move down a slope. Debris flows, also known as mudslides, are a common type of fast-moving landslide that tends to flow in channels. Learn what causes a landslide, the health threats and areas that are at risk.

5. Wildfire

More and more people make their homes in areas that are prone to wildfires. You can take steps to be ready for a wildfire and prepare your home and landscaping to reduce your risk. Learn how to protect yourself and your family from a wildfire, evacuate safely during a wildfire, and how to stay healthy when you return home.

6. Winter Weather

When temperatures drop significantly below normal, staying warm and safe can be a challenge. Learn how to prepare for winter storms, prevent cold-related health problems, and protect yourself during all stages of a winter storm.

Storm Ready:

Officials from NOAA's National Weather Service praise SIPH for completing a set of rigorous warning criteria necessary to earn the distinction of being StormReady®. StormReady® is a registered trademark of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The nationwide community preparedness program uses a grassroots approach to help communities develop plans to handle local severe weather and flooding threats. The program is voluntary and provides communities with clear-cut advice from a partnership between local National Weather Service forecast offices and state and local emergency managers. StormReady started in 1999 with seven communities in the Tulsa, Okla., area. There are now more than 1,235 StormReady communities across the country. SIPH became the first such entity in the nation to receive this recognition.

More than half of eligible Idaho locations (30 counties, 121 cities & communities, the Idaho National Laboratory and now SIPH) have achieved StormReady recognition and participate in the program.