Category Archives: Inclement Weather

Tornado Weather Alert Definitions

On Friday, April 19th Virginia experienced 11 tornadoes–including one in Northern Virginia’s Reston area! Many of us were at home when this all occurred.  We were inundated with news coverage and tornado alerts from the National Weather Service, but what actually do these weather alerts mean?

When these weather alerts are issued, it is important to know the definitions because they should trigger different actions you take. You may need to plan ahead and take precautions,  or you may even need to take immediate life-saving action. The infographic above highlights the differences between a tornado watch and warning. Please take a moment to review these definitions so you are better prepared.

 

Winter Weather Warning Update 2/19

The National Weather Service’s latest update early this morning (247 AM Tue Feb 19) places the surrounding NOVA Community under a Winter Storm Warning in effect from 1 AM to 7 PM tomorrow (Wednesday).

What does this forecast say?

  • WHAT…Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow
    accumulations of 4 to 6 inches and ice accumulations of up to
    one tenth of an inch expected.
  • WHEN…From 1 AM to 7 PM EST Wednesday.
  • ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Travel could be very difficult. The
    hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening
    commute.

What precautionary/preparedness actions should be taken?

  • Make sure you are signed up for NOVA Alert and monitor the College’s website for details on our operational status.
  • When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on
    steps, sidewalks, and driveways. Expect icy and slippery conditions that may increase your risk of a fall and injury.
  • A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. Exercise caution if you travel.

Winterize Your Vehicle

Winter isn’t just around the corner—it’s hear today! Make sure your vehicle and emergency vehicle kit are ready to keep you safe and prepared.

Prepare Your Vehicle

  • Install good winter tires. Make sure each tire has enough tread.
  • Keep your gas tank full. A full tank keeps the fuel line from freezing, and it’s also a good idea in case you lose power.
  • Batteries lose power as temperatures drop, so be sure to have yours tested.
  • Have your vehicle’s antifreeze level and radiator system checked.
  • Proactively replace your car’s worn wiper blades.
  • To help with visibility, clean off your car entirely—including your trunk, roof, windows, and headlights.

Prepare Yourself

Making sure your emergency vehicle kit is fully stocked:

  • Water, non-perishable food, and an extra set of warm clothes in case you get stranded
  • Jumper cables
  • Cat litter or sand for better tire traction
  • Car cell phone charger
  • Ice scraper
  • Flares or reflective triangle

For more information about winter vehicle safety, visit: www.ready.gov/car.

Be Prepared – Hurricanes and High Winds

In the final daily September Preparedness Month blog post, we conclude with a video message from Virginia Ralph Northam.

Every year, the Northern Virginia region experiences a varying degree of heavy rains and strong winds from storms, tropical storms, and even hurricanes. The storm’s high winds may even spawn tornadoes—like we saw when the remanence of Hurricane Florence traveled through Richmond, Virginia a few weeks ago.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak occurring between mid-August and late October. We still have a long way to go until this year’s hurricane season is over!

Please review the Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Guide as well as additional resources on the website including: how to build an emergency kit, and tornado and flood preparedness. It is important to prepare your family, home, and office before a storm arrives.