Signal Summer 2019 Newsletter

www.alliancecom.net 7 FAST FACT: Wildfires some- times create tornadoes made of fire called fire whirls. Weather Plays a Supporting Role in These Movies Pick a stormy day, or any day, to watch these weather-themed movies: Ice Age – In this animated movie that’s appropriate for the whole family, three ice age animals work together to return a baby human to his tribe. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs – Another good one to watch with the kids, this animated movie follows the two main characters as they try to figure out why food is falling from the sky. The Ice Storm– Talented stars Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver are featured in this compelling drama about a wealthy Connecticut family. Sharknado– Yes, you read right. It’s a storm full of sharks, and it’s heading for Los Angeles, where a group of friends tries to avoid its destruction. The Wizard of Oz – Worth seeing again, this classic involves a tornado that transports farm girl Dorothy Gale to a land of yellow brick roads, singing munchkins, and flying monkeys. The Perfect Storm– Based on the true story of a fishing boat hit by the com- bination of a hurricane from Bermuda and a cold front from the Great Lakes. Plan Ahead for Mother Nature’s Wrath A bad weather day can do much more than ruin your plans. It can damage your property and community, and even put your life at risk. Depending on where you live, some types of severe weather are more probable than others, so it makes sense to know the likeliest scenarios. Here are some tips to help you be prepared: Tornadoes Understand the signs of a tornado such as a funnel-shaped cloud or loud roar that sounds like a freight train. Know where to go to protect yourself from flying debris whether you’re in your own home, out in the community, or in your car driving. After the storm, avoid fallen power or utility lines and only enter affected buildings when you know they’re safe. Floods If your area is prone to flooding, con- sider purchasing flood insurance. Have a bag of supplies ready to go in case you have to leave your home in a hurry, and always follow evacuation instruc- tions. If trapped, get to the highest level possible in the building you’re in. After the storm, turn off the power to avoid electric shock. Thunderstorms and Lightning Prior to a storm, buy equipment to protect your home’s electronic appliances and devices. If you’re outside when a storm starts, don’t take any chances; go indoors. If you’re away from home, find the nearest sturdy building or, as a last resort, car. Afterward, wait to go outside until you get the all-clear from authorities. Find more information about severe weather preparedness at ready.gov/ severe-weather.