| On May 22, 2011, a multiple-vortex tornado descended upon Joplin, Missouri. Winds exceeding 200 miles an hour tore through the town devastating schools, a hospital, businesses and homes. 158 people were killed. Tornado warnings had been issued. Sirens had sounded. But not everyone responded to the warnings. Why? NOAA researchers discovered that many people did not act after they heard the tornado warning but waited for confirmation from another source, including friends. After such confirmation they were more likely to seek shelter. This is where you fit in. You can be a role model when it comes to severe weather preparedness. People are more likely to take action if they see family members or friends preparing for a storm. Share your preparedness story. Tweet using the hashtag #ImAForce. Write a blog post. Send a letter to the editor. Add a note on Facebook. Use our online toolkit to get ideas about what to say and materials that you can use to get the word out. Everyone can be a role model when it comes to severe weather safety. Be a Force of Nature in your hometown by stressing the need for severe weather preparedness. You can do more than just inspire - you can save lives. For Daily News Stories go to: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/news/130308_swpw_example.html |