Manhattan braces for more severe weather
9:09 p.m. Thursday, June 5, 2008
The Riley County Emergency Management team receives extra calls, as people are more concerned about dangerous weather, like the hailstorm that pounded Manhattan on Monday.
Assistant Emergency Management Director Laurie Harrison says the county has staffed eight storm spotters, in addition to local police and fire personnel to help prepare residents for the worst.
The most common question called in: Where should I go if a tornado strikes?
"And typically we recommend a basement. Underground is best," Harrison said. "If you don't have a basement, go to an interior room in the lowest level of the home. Put as many walls between you and the storm as possible. And stay away from windows."
Riley County emergency response teams have taken extra measures to providing safety to citizens, especially with the inclement weather this week. They do say, however, that citizens can provide that safety for themselves by purchasing things like a weather radio or mapping out where they plan to go in case inclement weather strikes.
"Oh yeah. For less then $30, you know that you can purchase an all-hazards radio. What a lifesaver for $30," Harrison said.
County appraisers say more than 80 businesses and 1,500 homes were damaged by the Monday morning storm, which flooded streets and shattered hundreds of car windows.
Riley County Police and Emergency Management teams say they are fully staffed tonight and will increase the number of officers if necessary.
Coming soon, local, young television talent will shine on 49 News Kidcasts. Check back to see local kids, 4th through 8th grade, to give the weather on TV.
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