6 Tips For Safe Travel During Severe Weather

17.05.2024 - 16:49 / forbes.com

Traveling during severe weather can be nerve-wracking, as travel delays and safety risks may occur. Several steps can help you prepare for inclement weather and seek shelter at various destinations.

Downloading a travel-friendly weather app can provide forecasts and weather alerts for your destination and route.

Below are four of the best travel weather apps:

The apps mentioned above are available for Android and iOS devices and can supplement your existing local weather app and preferred travel apps.

A NOAA weather radio transmits emergency alerts near your current location. These radios are helpful at home and while traveling as they prevent coverage gaps if your phone doesn’t receive location-based weather alerts or you can’t tune into a local news broadcast.

Further, weather radios are relatively inexpensive and cost as little as $30. For example, the highly-rated Midland WR120B NOAA Emergency Weather Alert Radio can provide alerts for up to 60 hazards and emergencies. It monitors seven NOAA channels, can be locally programmed, and has an alarm clock. Finally, it only requires three AAA batteries.

It’s wise to carry extra food, water, and travel gear that make a difference in case you’re stranded or stores close. These supplies can easily squeeze into a car kit or a carry-on and you can consume the snacks once you return home or are out of harm’s way.

Extra clothing layers are vital during cold weather travel to stay warm. During hot weather, bring plenty of fluids to remain hydrated and have a shade source.

The United States tornado season typically runs from March to July. The spring months are typically the most active, with frequent weather swings.

While tornadoes can happen anywhere, they are most prevalent in “Tornado Alley” in the Great Plains and Midwest. Active states include:

The Deep South states of Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi are also increasingly susceptible to tornadoes and hail storms.

When traveling, enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your cell phone for location-based warnings. Additionally, check for warnings from the National Weather Service or local media social media pages during the trip or when you see a gloomy sky.

In an active tornado threat, go to the lowest floor and avoid glass windows. For optimal safety, look for a wooden frame or cinder block construction with a small roof instead of mobile homes, RVs, or campers.

Avoid buildings with long roofs that grocery stores, discount stores, malls, and airport terminals typically have, as they are relatively weak in damaging winds. These locations should have a fortified storm shelter for such events

If you find yourself driving during severe weather, consider pulling over and looking for rest areas or truck stops with