Seasonal Information

Spring is upon us! The warm weather causes more people to be outside and can equal more cars on the road. Use caution when driving because of the increased amount of cars and pedestrians. If you are a pedestrian be cautious of the extra traffic.

Spring in Kansas means warmer weather and often means severe weather. Kansas severe weather includes tornados, lightning, flash flooding, and hail. Pay attention to weather watches and warnings; you can follow these conditions with your television, radio, and online.

Severe Weather

If severe weather threatens Lawrence or North East Douglas county, you should take the proper precautions.

Tornados

If there is a tornado warning, go inside to the basement or lowest floor, find an interior space, and stay away from windows and exterior walls.

If in a car during a tornado, exit your vehicle, go into a suitable structure, or lay flat in a ditch or depression and cover your head.

Warning Sirens

All Kansas counties test their tornado warning sirens on Mondays, during nice weather, and during the noon hour. If you hear this siren at any other time or during bad weather, take shelter immediately.

Electrical Storms

It there is an electrical storm, go inside, avoid electrical appliances, and do not shower. If you are outside and can not make it to shelter, avoid isolated tall trees and poles, if you feel your hair standing on end, squat with your head between your legs.

Flash Flooding

If there is flash flooding, avoid low spots and streams, do not walk or drive through flooded areas; less then one foot of water can displace 1500 pounds.

Hail

If there is hail, go inside and avoid windows. If you are in a vehicle, safely pull over. Try to safely find a garage or overpass. Vehicles offer good protection from hail that is under golf ball size. Larger then golf ball hail can cause severe vehicle damage. Carry a blanket with you to protect from broken glass. Avoid parking under trees, tree branches can be stripped from the tree during a hail storm.