Tornadoes are the most destructive of all atmospheric conditions. Wind speeds within these violently rotating columns of air can reach up to 318 mph. A study published in npj Climate and Atmospheric Science noted that there has been an upward trend in tornado frequency among the Southeast, including Kentucky. Unfortunately, the Southeast already the maximum occurrence of casualties as a result from tornadoes. From January 2021 through March 2022 there were 79 tornadoes in the state of Kentucky, causing 2.323 million dollars in property damage and resulting in the deaths of 74 individuals. In Boone County, one tornado was reported during this time frame which resulted in $50,000 in property damage. Luckily, there were no fatalities. 

Severe storms and tornados can occur at any time of the year and any time of the day. Therefore, it is so important to be prepared and have a plan in place as well as an emergency kit readily available. As a result of this information, Boone County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences conducted a program titled “Are You Weather Ready?” that focused on learning how to prepare for severe storms and tornados, severe weather warnings, how to create an emergency plan for your home, and how to build an emergency supply kit. 

Results from a pre-and post-program evaluation found the following:

Assessing level of understanding based on a scale from 1 to 4 with Poor=1 Average =2 Good=3 Excellent=4

1. Recognizing items needed in a 72-hour emergency kit increased from 3 to 4
2. Ability to select first aid supplies in an emergency kit increased from 3 to 4
3. Ability to discuss evacuation and sheltering in place plans increased from 3 to 4
4. Discuss plans for family pets or animals increased from 1.67 to 4

Regarding behavior change, 100% of participants planned to make a family disaster kit as well as develop and family disaster plan. 

When asked about the program, participants shared:

1. “Thank you. I want to take this to my club.”