JEFFERSON CITY — The events over the last few weeks have certainly proven the old saying, “if you don’t like the weather in Missouri, just wait a minute.” While many use this saying as a joke, the recent string of severe weather in Missouri is very serious. In contrast to last summer, we have already experienced thunder storms, lightning, and flash floods. Major flooding has affected the 29th District, damaging areas in southern Barry and Stone counties and in the city of Hollister in Taney County. Flood victims were forced to escape rising flood waters by standing on rooftops and climbing up trees.  In Hollister, one victim even clung to a basketball hoop to avoid being swept away. We are all thankful that no loss of life occurred, but many have lost their cars, homes, and all their possessions. In other parts of the state, the flooding has claimed lives as well as taking material possessions.

These events remind us of how powerful the forces of nature can be, and that we should take severe weather seriously. While there is no one way to avoid dangerous weather, there are basic steps you can take to ensure you are ready should it occur.

One of the first things to realize in the event of severe weather is the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch is simply a notice that severe weather is possible in the area, while a warning means a weather event is about to happen. Thunderstorms can bring massive amounts of rain, resulting in potential flash floods. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a person can drown in six inches of water, and a vehicle can be swept away by as little as a few inches of water. Please avoid low-water crossings or any road with water flowing over it. It is a basic way to avoid a dangerous situation. The NWS suggests citizens remember the motto, “Turn Around! Don’t Drown!”

Another very real danger of thunderstorms is lightning. Lightning causes more than 300 injuries per year, with most of those causing harm to people who did not or could not seek shelter indoors. Therefore, the simplest way to avoid injury from lightning is to go indoors. If that isn’t possible, stay away from tall trees and avoid using metal equipment. Once inside, unplug any appliances that could be damaged if lightning were to cause power surges.

Severe weather can also produce tornadoes. The last few years has reminded us of the danger of tornadoes, and that we must take every watch or warning seriously. While timely notification is the best defense against a tornado, the next best option is to have a plan. Preparing for a tornado is, perhaps, the most important part of remaining safe when one actually strikes. The safest place to be is the lowest level of the home with as many walls as possible between you and the outside. The safest places to seek shelter are a basement, storm cellar, or interior closet or bathroom. After finding the safest place possible, protect your head from potential debris with padding, such as blankets and pillows.

While a thunderstorm is commonly heralded by dark clouds, a tornado is often accompanied by a greenish-colored sky and a roaring sound similar to a freight train. These are two helpful indicators that a tornado may be approaching and one should seek cover immediately. Also, there are several myths about tornadoes, such as they will jump water or are highly visible. The truth is, tornadoes can form over water, which are called water spouts, and the wind patterns that cause the funnel clouds do not always pick up physical pieces of debris, such as dust, to make them visible.

As always, I welcome your ideas, questions and concerns about Missouri government. You may contact me at the State Capitol as follows: (573) 751-1480; david.sater@senate.mo.gov; or by writing to Sen. David Sater, Missouri State Capitol, Room 433, Jefferson City, MO 65101.