MERCER COUNTY, W.Va. – With the possibility of severe weather looming for areas in the two Virginias, an emergency management director is encouraging people no matter where you are to stay weather aware.
Keith Gunnoe is the emergency management director for Mercer County. Gunnoe says people should be paying close attention to weather forecasts because weather conditions can change quickly.
He says people should be paying close attention to weather forecasts because weather conditions can change quickly. He says it’s a good idea to download a reliable weather app on your phone like the WVVA Weather app to monitor conditions and make sure you’re staying safe.
Gunnoe says if you begin to see flooding it may be a good idea to leave the area.
“Take a quick look at a radar app or weather app and if you see the radar showing tons more rain that’s getting ready to come into your area it might pay you to go on and get out of that area,” said Gunnoe.
Gunnoe says if you decide to stay you should seek shelter on a high place and call for help.
Gunnoe adds people should also never attempt to drive through unknown depths of flood waters.
If a tornado warning has been issued for your area you should shelter in place in a basement or a room without windows on the lowest floor of your home.
If you’re in a vehicle, pull over as soon as it’s safe and get out. Don’t try to outrun a tornado, as they can change direction quickly and lift vehicles into the air. Seek shelter inside of a place like a gas station or head to a low lying area.
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