Learning from the 2011 Tornado in Joplin

The National Weather Service released findings from the May 22, 2011 tornado in Joplin, MO. (As a side note, I urge anyone reading this to purchase a weather alert radio or to inquire with their local officials about a free weather alert radio. Being alert to severe weather can save your life.)

Key findings:

Improve warning communications to convey a sense of urgency for extreme events. This will compel people to take immediate life-saving action.

Collaborate with partners who communicate weather warnings to develop GPS-based warning communications, including the use of text messaging, smart phone apps, mobile communications technologies, in addition to upgrades to the Emergency Alert System and NOAA Weather Radio.

Collaborate more throughout the weather enterprise to ensure that weather warning messages sent via television, radio, NOAA Weather Radio, local warning systems such as sirens – are consistent to reduce confusion and stress the seriousness of the threat.

Continue to increase community preparedness.

Full report can be found here: http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2011/20110920_joplin.html