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Kentucky Governor Warns of NOAA Weather Radio Outage

A stormy sky over a Kentucky town warning about severe weather

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News Summary

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has issued a warning about a temporary outage affecting NOAA weather radios due to a systems upgrade, coinciding with forecasts of severe storms. With many residents relying on these radios for emergency alerts, the governor urges alternative alert methods during this crucial period. As communities recover from a recent tornado outbreak, he emphasizes preparedness measures and suggests using the ABC 36 Storm Team Weather App for urgent weather updates. A statewide tornado drill is also scheduled to enhance public awareness and readiness.

FRANKFORT, KENTUCKY – Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has issued a warning regarding a significant outage affecting NOAA weather radios, coinciding with the aftermath of a severe tornado outbreak that devastated local communities on Friday. The outage is related to a systems upgrade that is currently in effect and will last through Wednesday, which may leave some residents without access to vital emergency weather alerts.

The timing of this upgrade has raised concerns, particularly as forecasts predict the approach of more severe storms in the coming days, including dangerous winds, large hail, and potential tornado activity. As communities continue to recover from last week’s tornado destruction, the governor emphasized the importance of having alternative alert systems in place, as many Kentuckians rely on NOAA radios for emergency information.

Severe Weather Forecasts

Residents of Kentucky are advised to take the upcoming severe weather threats seriously. Forecasts indicate that strong winds and heavy hail are expected, leading to possible tornado formation. Officials are recommending that individuals remain vigilant, ensure their smartphones have weather alerts enabled, and keep their devices fully charged to stay informed as the situation evolves.

Alternative Alert Systems

In light of the NOAA radio outage, authorities encourage residents to seek alternative methods for obtaining important weather information. The ABC 36 Storm Team Weather App is one suggested resource for local weather updates, offering alerts for watches and warnings directly to smartphones. Furthermore, people are urged to create shelter plans ahead of severe weather and to monitor weather conditions throughout the week.

Statewide Tornado Drill

As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, a statewide tornado drill is scheduled for Friday at 10:07 a.m. Eastern Time. This drill will encompass the activation of the Emergency Alert System, involving NOAA weather radios and local TV and radio stations. However, selected areas in Northern Kentucky will experience a Routine Weekly Test instead of a tornado warning during this drill.

The wireless emergency alerts (WEA) system will identify the test message as a drill and disregard it, allowing for a clear distinction between actual warnings and test alerts. The activation of outdoor warning sirens during this exercise will vary according to the decisions made by County Emergency Management Agency directors, ensuring compliance with local protocols.

Preparedness Measures

Residents are reminded to prepare for severe weather by employing multiple methods to receive emergency alerts. Kentucky Emergency Management and FEMA offer several tips to help individuals get ready for potential emergencies, including planning for power outages and being aware of flooding risks. Instances where NOAA radios may not issue audible alerts typically involve incorrect programming or specific regional agreements regarding test broadcasts.

During actual tornado warnings, all relevant transmitters will disseminate the emergency alerts to keep the public informed in real-time. As the upgrade of NOAA systems continues and with severe weather looming, Kentucky communities are urged to take all precautions necessary to ensure safety and preparedness.

With the imminent risk posed by nature, staying informed and having an actionable plan remains essential for everyone in the Kentucky region.