Altus to hold severe weather briefings

Published March 11, 2008
By Senior Airman Clinton Atkins
97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The 97th Civil Engineering Squadron Emergency Management Flight and the 97th Operations Support Squadron Weather Flight will conduct the annual severe weather briefings March 26 at 7 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. at the base theater.

"Tornadoes are the most violent weather phenomena, and it's imperative that everyone knows not only what to expect, but how to react to protect themselves and their families," said 1st Lt. Jennifer Shields, 97 OSS Weather Flight commander.

During the briefing, Altus AFB personnel will learn what they can expect in Altus, okla., as the area transitions into the severe weather season.

Severe weather is classified as strong thunderstorms with winds in excess of 50 knots, 56 miles per hour, hail greater than ¾-inches in diameter, tornadoes and frequent lightning, and since Oklahoma is located in Tornado Alley severe weather preparation is a priority for Altus AFB.

"It's important that everyone gets a refresher course on the differences between weather watches, warnings, advisories and which actions need to be taken for each -- it could save someone's life," the lieutenant said.

All servicemembers, civilians and their families are encouraged to attend the briefings. For more information, call 481-5389.

For more information on severe weather, visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Web site http://www.noaawatch.gov/themes/severe.php.