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The hail hammered against the roof of the SUV, a relentless assault on the vehicle that left my dog, Rocky, trembling in my arms. It was the second year in a row that a camping trip with friends had ended in a sudden evacuation. Unbelievably, just two years later, we would be fleeing our campsite again—this time from a tornado that tore past less than half a mile away.
These experiences brings this reality to the forefront: camping makes you uniquely vulnerable to severe weather. You’re in unfamiliar territory, facing different risks than you would at home, and often cut off by poor cell service right when you need information the most.
My heart go out to everyone affected by the devastating flash floods in Texas. Events like these, and my own experiences, are stark reminders of how quickly weather can turn dangerous and how easily we can get lulled into ignoring watches and warnings. Being prepared is key.
This video on RV weather safety offers some great tips, but one of the most important takeaways for everyone is the need for a reliable weather alert system.
Phone apps are great, but as the video and my own experiences show, they aren’t always enough. That’s why having a NOAA Weather Radio is so crucial. It can provide you with life-saving alerts, even when other systems fail.Protect yourself and your loved ones. Get a weather radio and make sure you have a plan in place for severe weather. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Use a Weather Radio: In an emergency, cell phone towers can become overloaded or damaged, leaving you without a reliable way to receive alerts. A battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio is a dedicated device that receives broadcasts directly from the National Weather Service, ensuring you get critical information when you need it most.
- Know What County You Are In: The National Weather Service issues alerts based on counties. When you’re traveling or in an unfamiliar area, it’s vital to know which county you’re in so you can recognize when an alert applies to you. You can usually find this information on a map or by asking at a local visitor center or campground office.
- Know Where Shelters and Evacuation Points: Are When you’re camping or in a new place, make it a habit to identify the nearest storm shelters and evacuation routes as soon as you arrive. Don’t wait for the storm to hit to start looking for a safe place. Ask the campground staff or a park ranger for this information when you check in.
- Understand the Unique Weather Risks to Your Camping Area: Different regions have different weather risks. Whether it’s the threat of flash floods in a low-lying area, wildfires in a dry, wooded region, or tornadoes in the plains, understanding the specific dangers of your location is the first step in preparing for them.
- Watches Turn to Warnings, Fast: A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for a particular type of severe weather. This is the time to prepare. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent or already happening. Don’t wait for a warning to take action. If you are under a watch, be ready to evacuate. When a warning is issued, it’s time to go.
By taking these steps, you can significantly increase your safety and the safety of those around you. Don’t get caught off guard. Be prepared, stay informed, and have a plan.